1996 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Bora

To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Bora is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 325 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Bora. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Bora. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 325 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Bora. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 BMW 325 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 1996 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Bora, 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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Bora. (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Bora. 2003 Volkswagen Bora has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Bora will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 325 2003 Volkswagen Bora
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Bora
Year Released 1996 2003
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2492 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 168 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 155 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 86.9 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1195 kg
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1740 mm