2009 BMW 523 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 207 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 523 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 11.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
