1991 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (43 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Polo | M3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 20.3 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1885 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 63 L |
