1986 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (266 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 351 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Golf is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1986 BMW M3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 266 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1521 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |