1996 BMW 528 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 17 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 BMW 528. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 528 weights approximately 183 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1996 BMW 528 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 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 528. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 528. 1996 BMW 528 has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 528 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 528 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 528 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
