2011 BMW 535 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 BMW 535 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (311 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 BMW 535 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 2011 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2011 BMW 535 (600 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 BMW 535 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4907 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1462 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2968 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
