1990 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 15 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 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 1990 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
