2009 BMW 635 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 635 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 635 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 635 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 635 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 2009 BMW 635 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 635. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 635 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 635 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 BMW 635 has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 635 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 635 1979 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 635 Golf
Year Released 2009 1979
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 1093 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 282 HP 50 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 580 Nm 79 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 69.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 8.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 45 L