1984 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP) has 347 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 1150 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 513 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1984 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW 550 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Golf | 550 |
Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 400 HP |
Torque | 96 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |