2008 BMW 523 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 734 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 523 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 523 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 756 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |