2008 BMW 130 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 130 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 130 (268 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 130 weights approximately 17 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 2008 BMW 130 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 2008 BMW 130. 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 BMW 130 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 130 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 130 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 130 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
