2003 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 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 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 510 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.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |