2005 BMW 116 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 116. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 116 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2005 BMW 116. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 116. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 121 kg more than 2005 BMW 116. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 116 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 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 116. (153 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 116.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 116 2012 Volkswagen GTI
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 116 GTI
Year Released 2005 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 114 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 2200 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 1280 kg 1401 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 4213 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1501 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L