2003 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 580 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
