2006 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 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 23 more horse power than 2006 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 525 weights approximately 82 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 BMW 525 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 525. 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
