2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 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 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, 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 (502 Nm) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | GTI |
Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 281 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |