2001 BMW 320 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 108 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2001 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
