2008 BMW 325 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana

To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,493 cc, 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 1981 Volkswagen Santana
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Santana
Year Released 2008 1981
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2493 cc 1588 cc
Horse Power 189 HP 75 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 77.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 235 km/hour 160 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1460 kg 990 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L