2003 BMW 530 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 BMW 530 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 2003 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2003 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 530 | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 530 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
