1996 BMW 525 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 BMW 525 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 525 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (88 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1996 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 525 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 525 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |