1983 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 231 kg more than 1983 BMW 323.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 1983 BMW 323. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 323 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.2 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
