1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 102 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 149 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (351 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 351 Nm |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |