2002 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 165 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW M3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3997 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 444 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 480 Nm | 220 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1265 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |