2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2009 BMW 118
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 5 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2009 BMW 118. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 162 kg more than 2009 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 118 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 2009 BMW 118. 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 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 118. (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 118 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
