2009 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 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 310 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 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, 2001 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
