2008 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 482 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
