2008 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 BMW 325 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 345 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 325 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 325. 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 2003 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Golf
Year Released 2008 2003
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1388 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 75.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 240 km/hour 171 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.9 seconds 14.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1155 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 6.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L