2008 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
