1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 550 weights approximately 1370 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 2010 BMW 550 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 2010 BMW 550. 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, 2010 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 484 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 2010 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 550 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3066 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
