2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 525 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
