2011 BMW X3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 694 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 BMW X3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | AWD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4648 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1881 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1675 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
