2003 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 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 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 238 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 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. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1770 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |