2007 BMW 325 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 BMW 325 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 325 weights approximately 291 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW 325 1981 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Golf
Year Released 2007 1981
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1476 kg 1185 kg
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L