2009 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
