Golf GTI vs BMW’s E90 320i

[st8six]

SECOND OPINION: The golf is simply pure joy on wheels
By MARHALIM ABAS

May 28:
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TO be honest, I was quite surprised when asked to do a shoot-out between a Golf GTI and BMW’s latest 3-Series, the E90 320i.
Heck, a Golf even in the GTI guise is still a hatchback while the 3-Series is the supreme leader in the sports sedan world. The former’s actual competition with the BMW is the 1-Series, but our pricing regulations mean that the GTI is clawing on the realm of the 3-Series, Audi A4 and the Mercedes C-Class.

My initial apprehension, however, was somewhat appeased when I was given the keys to the GTI, not your normal run-of-the-mill VW Golf, but Wald-tuned GTI, a firebreathing would-be 3-Series slayer courtesy of Japanese tuner, Wald.

Even after driving both, I still feel it’s a miss-match. Notwithstanding the outcome, the comparison clearly shows the high regard for the 3-Series in general, even a standard 320i. Would someone ask me to compare the Wald with a factory-stock C-Class?

Here’s the skinny of the shoot-out. After a day with the GTI, the 320i seemed pedestrian. That’s not to say that the 320i is a slouch. With 150 ponies in its four-cylinder engine, the car is a fast and comfortable street cruiser.

But it lacks the joy factor, which is seemingly abundant in the other car’s 200bhp turbo-charged engine, DSG gearbox, 18-inch wheels, 0 to 100kmph in under seven seconds, flat bottom steering wheel... Well, the list goes on.

Put the gear lever into the manual mode (it is a six-speed direct shift gearbox or DSG in VW-speak), the GTI is able to generate an unseemingly degree of power to its front wheel.

F1-style gear knobs on the steering wheel also enhances the joy and there seems to be no jerkiness, which appears to be the norm with similar system fixed on other cars.

Ergonomics-wise, both cars are on par but on build quality, I rate the GTI higher as it has been longer in the market, and all the production gremlins have been sorted out.

I cannot fault both cars on their handling as both take corners as if they are on rails.

Perhaps the thing that the 320i seems to better the GTI is in the cabin size. It seats five comfortably although I must add here the front seats on the BMW seem a bit small.

In conclusion, I dare say that the GTI gives the 320i a run for its money, especially in its fun factor. But for those choosing the 320i above the GTI, I cannot find fault with them despite its relatively higher price - the BMW is a good car.

But I’d always tell others that if they want a Beemer, get the biggest engine in the range. Only then they will appreciate BMW’s superb chassis and handling prowess. For the 3-Series, a 330i will do you no wrong, unless you can afford the upcoming E90 M3!

[st8six]

SHOOTOUT: Tale of two icons
Sharif Haron

May 28:
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THE BMW 3-Series and VW Golf GTI are both motoring legends. The former has for long been the benchmark in its segment that other car makers always try to match, while the GTI has gone down as one of the most evocative set of initials in the automotive industry.
And in Malaysia, the new 3-Series (320i, 325i and 330i) and latest Golf GTI 2.0 were launched about the same time last month. So when it was suggested that we try side by side a 320i and a Wald-tuned GTI as they have more or less same engine displacement, fair or unfair it sounded an exciting proposition.

The new 3-Series, just as its predecessors, is the most important product to BMW. As the 3-Series accounts for more than half of the manufacturer’s total sales, the styling of the new car has been kept sensible, not as radical as some models we have seen coming from the Bavarian firm in recent times.

But there’s definitely more cabin space in this one than in its predecessor. It also comes with BMW’s latest innovations that include new engines. I would say the new 3-Series is more mature, more luxurious and better built.

The Mark V Golf GTI is an important car too for Volkswagen. Officials had reportedly admitted that the company had taken its eye off the ball in the last few generations of GTI, so it was determined to restore lost credibility and to come up with a genuine hot hatch.

And so the new GTI comes with a turbocharged petrol engine that produces some 200bhp, and 280Nm of torque from a diesel-like 1,800rpm, as well as a claimed 0-100kmph acceleration in 6.9 seconds.

And the 320i versus the GTI?

Of course the 320i and GTI are two different animals. One is a saloon, the other a hatchback. While there are similarities in some departments, in most cases similar they definitely are not.

After using them for 24 hours each, I find the BMW to have a higher luxurious feel to it. And also by virtue of its bigger cabin space (or at least it feels more spacious) and extremely smooth ride, the passengers tend to be more comfortable inside it.

But those who are not familiar with products from the marque will need time to understand the car and its workings to get the best out of it. In other words, from the driver’s perspective, I rate the GTI as friendlier.

I must also say that, based on my last experience with a 2-litre Beemer, I hope the sample car made available to us had not been set up to BMW’s finest standards: I had a higher expectation of its handling and performance.

The GTI meanwhile lunges foward like, to borrow a cliche, an athlete off the starting block as you floor the accelerator pedal. It’s more fun to drive and I appreciate its acceleration, thanks to its 150bhp per tonne or thereabouts power-to-weight ratio, which also means it’s the most powerful Golf GTI to date. If the 320i can make the passengers smile, the GTI can make them scream.

Both cars tackle bends extremely well. But knowing that the tested GTI came with 18-inch alloys and 225/40 R18 tyres gave me that extra confidence psychologically when taking corners.

While I have a lot more to rattle about the two German machines, this article is not exactly intended to be a comprehensive shoot-out between the two. But more on the distinct elements or peculiarities that distingiush one from the other.

And among the two, one is about grace and the other ruthlessness, to put it in the most simplistic manner.

The 3-Series easily has a wider market appeal and will continue to be at the top of the sales charts in its class. It represents an excellent choice for company executives or for the family. In fact, the 3-Series is selling so well here it has become mainstream, no longer exclusive.

The Golf GTI meanwhile is more of a niche car for certain and rather limited market segment. It is not for your normal family use. It is not for the car enthusiasts either, but for the serious car enthusiasts.





* BMW 320i

Engine capacity: 1,995cc

Max power: 150bhp @ 6200rpm

Max torque: 200Nm @ 3,600rpm

Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed Steptronic

OTR Price: RM268,800





* VW GOLF GTI 2.0

Engine capacity: 1,984 cc

Max output: 200bhp @ 5,100rpm

Max torque: 280Nm @ 1,800rpm

Transmission: Six-speed automatic transmission (double clutch gearbox) DSG

OTR Price: RM241,160

[Jules]

One is a HOT hatch...one is a SALOON.....can compare argh?

I was "lectured" at length by my brother who works for BMW Oz on this.....after I raved abt the Golf's power vs the E90...and I have to agree, he is right that we are comparing the wrong category of cars here....

MCS and Golf GTi is more appropriate...

[wirelessjunkie]

The Golf was also compared against the 120i too.

[Fuhrer]

only msians will compare these 2 cars together lah..see price range, not catergories..duh!

[Tom]

i agree with fuhrer..

engine wise, how do you compare a turbo and a non although the same displacement...

i read somewhere (i may be wrong) that a turbo-ed engine is 1.3 times or was it 1.7 times the displacement of the engine.

i think the Golf GTi is a nice car but not in red....

[Juan Powerblow]

Originally posted by Fuhrer@May 29 2005, 12:41 PM
only msians will compare these 2 cars together lah..see price range, not catergories..duh!
Yup... strange! But, is the Golf GTi being over-priced here?

[maelzx]

Originally posted by Juan Powerblow@May 30 2005, 09:28 PM
Yup... strange! But, is the Golf GTi being over-priced here?
I find it funny that you ask that kind of question. I believe everybody in here is well aware that even Proton is OVERPRICE!!

I havent had any chances to view the new Golf GTi in real world, would love to do so sometime later. But will still pick BMW 320 (or 325) if got the money. Once BMWed always BMW :)

[chairoger]

Totally agree with Tom and Fuhrer. Simply CANNOT compare the GTI with 320i. Both are totally different creatures. If wanna compare,better compare 120i with the GTI. A closer comparison but still........ :huh:

[The Necessary]

Why cannot compare leh?

Sure, there are many differences between the 2- ie. NA vs. FI, hatch vs. saloon, for example, but to the potential car buyer, there are many similarities between the two that bear comparison. Like;

1. Price (always an issue, that);
2. Both are "premium" german brands;
3. Both are 2 litre engines;
4. Both have (at least) 4 doors, and seat 4/5;
5. Both manufacturers make sporting claims about either model.

So what's there NOT to compare.

And in a comparison, the e90 320i does pale...

Anyone considering an e90 320i should definitely consider a GTi, it's a much better car.

[ALBundy]

For once I may carry Necessary's ballz. :D

Its not Golf GTI's fault that the E90 or even the 120i is pathetic in comparison. Comparing both cars to the Golf GTI yields similar result, the GTi is a much better car, specification and driving wise.

Golf GTi has always been an icon in the hot hatch market, I am afraid the 120i is of no match in this category.

Al

[chairoger]

:huh: Ok ok. Before this discussion get out of hand, I think I did mentioned that the two cars cannot be compared together but I didnt say WHICH car is superior(in whatever aspect). Correct me if I am wrong but I dont think BMW is into the performance hot hatch/boy racer market yet. Just dont compare apple with orange lar. :rolleyes:

[skycon]

It is hot! Can view it at any Wald dealers.

http://66.113.235.62/vw/golf_gti/download/wallpaper04-800.jpg

[The Necessary]

Yar, so mine and Albundy's (hence forth known as "The Necessary's Ball Carrier Boy No. 1) point is that they CAN be compared, yo.

You would call the Mk.5 Golf GTi a boy racer's car? Have you driven or sat in one? You gotta be kidding. The GTi exhibits refinement and build quality above and beyond any 3 series or 1 series!

What would you call the upcoming 130i? A non performance hatch?

Hello... "Sheer driving pleasure", "The Ultimate Driving Machine",.... I don't think BMW are selling their cars to OAP sunday drivers, yo?

[chairoger]

:rolleyes: Aiyo. Oklar. Oklar. You win lar. Compare whatever you want.

Just dont go ballistic on me bro. Cool down lar. Dont be like that ler. You having a bad day ah?? :D

[ALBundy]

Chaigroger, you have submitted to the DARK SIDE aka Ball carrier no.2 :yahoo: :yahoo:

[chairoger]

:) ALBundy,

Anything also can lar.hehe I just dont wan the bros here to "slaughter" each other. Lets keep it civilised. ;)

[The Necessary]

Civility is highly over-rated, honestly is much maligned.
(that's half original, btw)


Example:

Civil;

BMWs are different from VWs, so cannot compare.

Honesty;

BMWs are over priced and under engineered.

Conclusion:

You learn more from honesty.


Not having a bad day la, i'm just offensive most of the time.

[Juan Powerblow]

Chairoger, you obviously haven't encountered The Necessary before. Well, there's always a first time! It's not personal, just the way he is on the forum, hahahahahaha!!! Cheers, bro!

[GeeTRM5]

Chairoger, if you choose to debate further with The Necc, you better have all your 'bullets' and facts at hand.... Hehehehe..... You haven't see what he can unleash on you!!! Wanna try?

[Jules]

Originally posted by Juan Powerblow@May 31 2005, 05:59 PM
Chairoger, you obviously haven't encountered The Necessary before. Well, there's always a first time! It's not personal, just the way he is on the forum, hahahahahaha!!! Cheers, bro!
Necc, ur the champ-lah.......bet u were once the debate champ in ur school!!! :D

We take the agro out on the kart track one day okie.....with EEric,BM5 & Alvin/OSF.... :)

[willie]

guys got one question here, what is WALD ah??? saw many advertisement board along the north south highway but then don't what is it..... recently saw some wish with WALD badge on it..... but the exterior looks ordinary for me..........

[Zul]

WALD is a performance tuning company, that what they said. So if it is true it is then like ACSchnitzer and so on...

[OSFlanker]

Originally posted by willie@Jun 1 2005, 08:16 AM
guys got one question here, what is WALD ah??? saw many advertisement board along the north south highway but then don't what is it..... recently saw some wish with WALD badge on it..... but the exterior looks ordinary for me..........
WALD is just another channel to give out AP for new CBU cars. Most of the cars WALD bring in are just the same as the standard VW, Toyota, Nissan etc, with an additional WALD badge (or badges). The WALD tuning package is just an option which they are not pushing very hard.

If you are clever and has connections, you can set up your own tuning company based in British Virgin Islands and become another mystery AP holder. You can call your tuning company Hailam, AC Shittier or HardlyGay :P

[Jyi1693]

one a hot hatch, the other being a sedan.
no way you can compare them...

[Zoggee]

Originally posted by Jules+May 31 2005, 05:50 AM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (Jules @ May 31 2005, 05:50 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'> <!--QuoteBegin-Juan Powerblow@May 31 2005, 05:59 PM
Chairoger, you obviously haven&#39;t encountered The Necessary before. Well, there&#39;s always a first time&#33; It&#39;s not personal, just the way he is on the forum, hahahahahaha&#33;&#33;&#33; Cheers, bro&#33;
Necc, ur the champ-lah.......bet u were once the debate champ in ur school&#33;&#33;&#33; :D

We take the agro out on the kart track one day okie.....with EEric,BM5 & Alvin/OSF.... :) [/b][/quote]


muahahahaa..&#33;&#33;&#33; :lol: The NECC is on the prowl again...&#33;&#33; ;) scaring peeples with his Ingerlish again...haiyoo... :(

btw, NECC...BMW sucks..&#33;&#33; :ph34r: ahak&#33;&#33;&#33;* :ph34r: *

[supergripen]

:D well they can compare all they want la for all i care..end of the day its guy with the &#036;&#036;&#036;&#036; that decides what he wants.
;) though i wouldn&#39;t call bimmers underengineered and overpriced la.. dunno where that came from.in malaysia yes they are overtaxed but that is something that we all have to live with.. the only overpriced cars in malaysia are protons i guess..
most of us know how driving a bimmer(sedately or in anger)feels like and what they stand for hence why there are so many car nuts with bimmers.most guys who are crazy bout cars wud prob hv driven a rice burner one time or the other but as they mature,they wud eventually turn to bimmers or other conti marque.. :yes&#33;:
volks are good as well no doubt as the volks tuning scene in europe and the us proves but here in hightaxland, its a bit quiet.. i don&#39;t mind having a turbo&#39;d golf gti maxed up to the hilt but i&#39;d wear a mask driving it.see,i don&#39;t like being assoc with Max Power types..thats why i drive a bmw. :wink:

[supergripen]

:D hey,maybe a chipped 120d wud make a better comparo with the golf gti..200bhp,400nm.

[eddiefiola]

how can compare NA n forced induction? same cubic capacity, or course in general forced induction wins. m5 v10 excluded. but at the end of the day, there is no such thing as a perfect car. it all depends on the driver.


if u like vw, go buy vw. if u like bmw, go buy bmw etc etc.....

[rezzy3181]

Thats right Eddie not all have the same taste.