1987 BMW 324 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1987 BMW 324. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 133 kg more than 1987 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 BMW 324. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 324. (214 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 324. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 324 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 324 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
