2009 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 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 174 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (240 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
