2002 BMW 740 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 740 would be higher. At 3,901 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 740 (254 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 740 weights approximately 801 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 2002 BMW 740 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 740. 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, 2002 BMW 740 (600 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW 740 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 740 Golf
Year Released 2002 2008
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3901 cc 1968 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 254 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 600 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Top Speed 250 km/hour 158 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.4 seconds 16.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2016 kg 1215 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 55 L