1996 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 135 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 1996 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (305 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
