1997 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Touareg. (216 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Touareg. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 929 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Touareg (320 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2002 Volkswagen Touareg has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Touareg will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2002 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
