2006 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW M3 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Polo |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |