2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 71 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 320 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1524 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |