1988 BMW 530 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 192 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 1988 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 530 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 530 | GTI |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 188 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 261 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1401 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |