1988 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 52 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 62 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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| 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 | 192 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| 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 | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
