2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 BMW 318
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 47 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 318 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 2005 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (201 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1348 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
