1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 BMW 6 series
To start off, 2013 BMW 6 series is newer by 17 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 4,395 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW 6 series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 6 series (437 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 322 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 6 series should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2013 BMW 6 series 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, 2013 BMW 6 series 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, 2013 BMW 6 series (649 Nm) has 484 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2013 BMW 6 series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 BMW 6 series 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. 2013 BMW 6 series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 BMW 6 series | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 6 series |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 437 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0 :1 |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 5009 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2081 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2968 mm |
