2009 BMW 523 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 113 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 523 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2009 | 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 | 175 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
