2004 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 5 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 758 kg more than 2004 BMW M3.
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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, 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 (350 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
