2009 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 28 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 200 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |