2003 BMW X3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 501 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (245 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
