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 49 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 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. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 23 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1358 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 Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
