2008 BMW X3 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 X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 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 140 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 528 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 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, 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | X3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |