1988 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 17 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 64 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 11 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 206 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 | 1307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 45 L |
