2001 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 689 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Transporter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2008 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Transporter |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
