2008 BMW 320 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 23 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 510 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 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 1985 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Golf
Year Released 2008 1985
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 127 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 168 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 226 km/hour 200 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.3 seconds 9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1470 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L