2007 BMW X3 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 X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 419 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 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
