2008 BMW 525 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 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, 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1389 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 73 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
