2008 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 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 (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
