1980 BMW M5 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 32 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 10 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW M5 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 1980 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 1980 BMW M5 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M5 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
