2002 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Acura TL
To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 Acura TL. (305 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TL weights approximately 170 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Acura TL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL 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, 2012 Acura TL (370 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2012 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Acura TL has manual transmission. 2012 Acura TL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2012 Acura TL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | M3 | TL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4928 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
