2005 BMW 325 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (161 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 543 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2005 BMW 325 (237 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 325 1990 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Golf
Year Released 2005 1990
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 237 Nm 225 Nm
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1077 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2480 mm