2005 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Golf | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
