2007 BMW 523 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 BMW 523 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 523 weights approximately 118 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW 523 1998 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 523 Golf
Year Released 2007 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.6 seconds 12 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1382 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 62 L