1986 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 26 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 146 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
