2008 BMW X3 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 660 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2512 mm |
