2005 BMW 320 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 2005 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 320 2001 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Golf
Year Released 2005 2001
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2324 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 225 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1470 kg 1255 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm