1988 BMW 535 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 352 kg more than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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 535 (306 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. 2000 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 535 2000 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 535 Golf
Year Released 1988 2000
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3430 cc 1981 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 211 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 306 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 95.5 mm
Top Speed 227 km/hour 184 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1610 kg 1258 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 55 L