2008 BMW 525 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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 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 119 kg more than 2013 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, 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2008 BMW 525 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 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 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 | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
