2002 Acura TL vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura TL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura TL would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2002 Acura TL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura TL weights approximately 294 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura TL, 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura TL. (315 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura TL. 2002 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura TL | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | TL | M3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3212 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2770 mm |
