2003 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 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 959 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 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 2003 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Transporter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2008 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Transporter |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 350 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 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 | 1385 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
