2009 BMW 125 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2009 BMW 125 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 125 1991 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 125 Golf
Year Released 2009 1991
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 215 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 234 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 245 km/hour 220 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.4 seconds 7.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1326 kg 1155 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4030 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 55 L