1996 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg (444 HP) has 116 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg 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, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg (600 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2006 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 444 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
