2001 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 7 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 52 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 244 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2008 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, 2001 BMW 320 (331 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen GTI. 2008 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 2008 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
