1986 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 5 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 1986 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 1986 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
