2008 BMW 325 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 109 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.

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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen GTI 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 2013 Volkswagen GTI
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 GTI
Year Released 2008 2013
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2000 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 189 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1485 kg 1376 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4213 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1779 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1469 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L