1988 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 44 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 54 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
