1995 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 16 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 138 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
