1986 BMW 325 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 128 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
