2003 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 22 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
