2005 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW Z4 (184 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW Z4 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW Z4. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW Z4 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2489 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
