2008 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Golf
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 234 km/hour 187 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.8 seconds 11.9 seconds
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1175 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L