2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 BMW 118
To start off, 2011 BMW 118 is newer by 7 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), 2011 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2011 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 118 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 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 2011 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 (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 118. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 118 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
