1994 BMW 854 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1994 BMW 854 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,378 cc (12 cylinders), 1994 BMW 854 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW 854 (323 HP) has 270 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW 854 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 854 weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1994 BMW 854 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 854. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1994 BMW 854 (490 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1994 BMW 854 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 1994 BMW 854 has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 BMW 854 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1994 BMW 854 1986 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 854 Golf
Year Released 1994 1986
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5378 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 323 HP 53 HP
Torque 490 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 72 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1880 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2340 mm