2004 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Touareg. (225 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Touareg. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 481 kg more than 2004 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Touareg 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 Volkswagen Touareg (550 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2012 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4796 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1941 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1732 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2893 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
