2004 BMW 325 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 325 (189 HP) has 136 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 325 weights approximately 665 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 325 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 2004 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2004 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 325 1986 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Golf
Year Released 2004 1986
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 189 HP 53 HP
Torque 245 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1495 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.3 L/100km 6.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L