2007 BMW 120 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 BMW 120 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 120 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 120 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 BMW 120 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 2007 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2007 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW 120 1985 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 120 Golf
Year Released 2007 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 127 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 168 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 213 km/hour 200 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.5 seconds 9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1275 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 55 L