1997 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 7 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 127 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Sharan 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, 2004 Volkswagen Sharan 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, 2004 Volkswagen Sharan (316 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2004 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
