1981 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 70 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
