1988 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 252 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. 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, 1988 BMW 520 (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 520 2007 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 520 Golf
Year Released 1988 2007
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 155 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 86.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 12.0:1
Top Speed 202 km/hour 189 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.5 seconds 12.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1318 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1590 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.9 L/100km 7.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L