2000 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2000 BMW Z3. (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 103 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW Z3 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
