2008 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 472 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2012 Honda Civic 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. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | Civic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1183 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
