2007 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 78 kg more than 2007 BMW 523.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 523. 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 523. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 523 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:
| 2007 BMW 523 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 523 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
