1996 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 525 (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 618 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (118 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1423 cc |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 945 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
