2005 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 113 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 112 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2008 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, 2005 BMW 318 (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
