2008 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 4 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 BMW 525. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 267 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 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, 2008 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
