2009 BMW M3 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 325 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| 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 | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
