2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 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 (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 280 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW Z4 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z4 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2512 mm |