2003 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 9 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 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 277 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.

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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 520 2012 Volkswagen GTI
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 520 GTI
Year Released 2003 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2170 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 167 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1800 RPM
Top Speed 223 km/hour 240 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.5 seconds 6.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 1393 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4213 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1501 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Consumption 7.5 L/100km 7.6 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 12.8 L/100km 11.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L


 

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