2006 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 287 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 523 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3196 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
