2005 BMW 530 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 BMW 530 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 530 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 530 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 530 1999 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 530 Golf
Year Released 2005 1999
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 254 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 301 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 75.6 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1665 kg 1160 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm