1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen CC
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen CC is newer by 14 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 82 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen CC. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen CC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen CC weights approximately 205 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen CC, 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, 2011 Volkswagen CC (250 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2011 Volkswagen CC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2011 Volkswagen CC 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. 2011 Volkswagen CC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2011 Volkswagen CC | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | CC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4799 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1855 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2708 mm |
