2003 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 6 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 4,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (260 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 112 kg more than 2009 Toyota 4Runner.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Toyota 4Runner (415 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2009 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | M3 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 415 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 87 L |
