1988 BMW M3 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1990 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (161 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 219 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1988 BMW M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW M3 | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1988 | 1990 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1077 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |