2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura CL would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2002 Acura CL. (260 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura CL.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | M3 | CL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
