1990 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525.
Because 1990 BMW 525 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 1990 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 525 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 525 | GTI |
Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4211 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1468 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |