2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
