1985 BMW 324 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1985 BMW 324 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW 324 (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW 324 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW 324 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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. 1974 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1985 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1985 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 324 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.5 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
