1993 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 847 kg more than 1993 BMW M3.

Because 1993 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 1993 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 1993 BMW M3 (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1993 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen GTI.

Compare all specifications:

1993 BMW M3 2009 Volkswagen GTI
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model M3 GTI
Year Released 1993 2009
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2990 cc 1982 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 281 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 321 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.8 mm 95.5 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1460 kg 2307 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 55 L