2004 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 BMW 520 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 520 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 520 weights approximately 565 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 520 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2512 mm |