2011 Volkswagen GTI vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Volkswagen GTI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Volkswagen GTI would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320.
Because 2012 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Volkswagen GTI | 2012 BMW 320 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | GTI | 320 |
Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4211 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1384 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |