2001 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 189 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. 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 (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2001 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
