2002 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2002 BMW 520. (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 520 weights approximately 122 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2002 BMW 520 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 2002 BMW 520. 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 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW 520 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2170 cc | 3196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 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 | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |