2008 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP) has 114 more horse power than 2003 Acura RL. (225 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RL weights approximately 105 kg more than 2008 BMW M3.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RL, 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 BMW M3 (365 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RL. (313 Nm). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RL. 2003 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 2003 Acura RL | |
Make | BMW | Acura |
Model | M3 | RL |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3472 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 339 HP | 225 HP |
Torque | 365 Nm | 313 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1675 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2920 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |