1997 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 9 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg (310 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Touareg.
Because 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg (750 Nm) has 514 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2006 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
