2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 BMW 530 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 530 (271 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 BMW 530 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 2012 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2012 BMW 530 (310 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 530 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
