1988 BMW M3 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 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 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 220 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 | 1200 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
