2001 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 12 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.

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, 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 318 2013 Volkswagen GTI
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 GTI
Year Released 2001 2013
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 116 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 1700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 9.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium 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 1440 kg 1412 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4213 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1779 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1469 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L