2009 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 1 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 36 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 2009 BMW 320 (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Golf
Year Released 2009 2008
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 228 km/hour 195 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.2 seconds 11.4 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1284 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 10.6 L/100km 8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L