1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2013 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Polo | 2013 BMW M3 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Polo | M3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 408 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4618 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1976 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2761 mm |