1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 BMW 525
To start off, 2011 BMW 525 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 525 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2968 mm |
