1997 BMW S3 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 208 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
