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 341 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1999 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 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 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 | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
