2003 Acura CL vs. 2001 BMW M
To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 Acura CL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 205 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
Because 2001 BMW M 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 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, 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 M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura CL. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura CL | 2001 BMW M | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | CL | M |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |
