2008 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 820 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 339 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |