1995 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M3 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1995 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1995 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW M3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
