2004 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 520 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 84 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 520 weights approximately 302 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 520 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
