2004 BMW M3 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP) has 270 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 905 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2410 mm |
