2003 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 BMW 325 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 325 (192 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 325 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 325 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
