1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco is newer by 16 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco. (261 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1404 mm |
