2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Acura RL
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 RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura RL 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) has 189 more horse power than 2002 Acura RL. (225 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura RL weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RL. (313 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RL. 2002 Acura RL 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 RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2002 Acura RL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | M3 | RL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 400 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 | 1525 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
