2009 BMW M3 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Polo 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 371 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (43 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1991 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1991 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 20.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 850 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
