1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 15 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 243 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. (240 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1723 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2919 mm |
