1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (244 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 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, 2012 BMW X5 (540 Nm) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2933 mm |
