2001 BMW Compact vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Compact. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Compact would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Compact is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Compact (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Compact should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Compact weights approximately 207 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Compact 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 Compact. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2001 BMW Compact (237 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Compact will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Compact has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Compact will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW Compact | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Compact | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
