2003 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 211 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |