2009 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 475 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2009 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 318 2001 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Golf
Year Released 2009 2001
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1389 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 75.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 207 km/hour 171 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 8 L/100km 6.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L