1995 BMW S3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 582 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
