1978 BMW 520 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW 520 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
