2003 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2011 Toyota Highlander is newer by 8 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Highlander. (187 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 348 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, 2011 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Highlander. (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Highlander. 2011 Toyota Highlander 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. 2011 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2011 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | M3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 73 L |
