2005 BMW 535 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 BMW 535 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,428 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 535 (241 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 535 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 535 (330 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 535 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
