1984 BMW 323 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 256 kg more than 1984 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1984 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 1984 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323.

Compare all specifications:

1984 BMW 323 2010 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 323 Golf
Year Released 1984 2010
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2314 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 205 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1090 kg 1346 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4199 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2578 mm