2008 Volkswagen Transporter vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Transporter. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Transporter would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 689 kg more than 2011 BMW M3.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter, 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Transporter | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Transporter | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2460 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2344 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
