1975 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 BMW 520 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1975 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1975 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1975 BMW 520 2006 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 520 Golf
Year Released 1975 2006
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 123 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 172 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4350 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 11.5:1
Top Speed 175 km/hour 207 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12 seconds 9.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 1240 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L