1982 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 925 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Polo, 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Polo | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Polo | M3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 63 L |
