2009 BMW 120 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 229 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 120 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |