1998 BMW M vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP) has 128 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW M weights approximately 229 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW M 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 1998 BMW M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (85 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW M 2008 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model M Polo
Year Released 1998 2008
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 328 HP 200 HP
Torque 340 Nm 85 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.4 seconds 9.8 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1450 kg 1221 kg
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 45 L