2009 BMW 335 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 335 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 335 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 335 weights approximately 935 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 335 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 335. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 335 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 335 1980 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 335 Golf
Year Released 2009 1980
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 302 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 1300 RPM 2300 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 23.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1810 kg 875 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 40 L