2001 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |