1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 13 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 3,798 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Routan. (194 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Routan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 233 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Routan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Routan. (230 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Routan. 2009 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
