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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco. (138 HP @ 4000 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 182 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 320 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. 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco 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. 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Scirocco |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1298 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4256 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1404 mm |