1997 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1986 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
