1980 BMW M5 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M5 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M5 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
