2009 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2012 BMW 118. (170 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 146 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 118. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 118 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
