1996 BMW 528 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 528 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 BMW 528. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 528 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 528. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 528 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 528 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
