2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 21 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
