2008 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 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 36 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 132 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
