2006 BMW 325 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2006 BMW 325 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 325 1996 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Polo
Year Released 2006 1996
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 63 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1545 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2410 mm