1994 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW 520 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 520 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 520 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
