2006 BMW 118 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 BMW 118 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2006 BMW 118. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 118 weights approximately 262 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 BMW 118 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 2006 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 118 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 118 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
