1991 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1991 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 525 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1991 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 1991 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 525. (260 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 525. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 525 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 199 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
