1977 BMW 528 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1977 BMW 528. (178 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 528 weights approximately 61 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 1977 BMW 528 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1977 BMW 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 528. (234 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 528. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1977 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1977 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1977 BMW 528 2004 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 528 Golf
Year Released 1977 2004
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2788 cc 1968 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 178 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 234 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1416 kg 1355 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L