2004 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 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 @ 7250 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 491 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2005 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
