2009 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. Both 2009 BMW M3 and 2003 Volkswagen Passat are equipped with a 3,999 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (270 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 18 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (370 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | W |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 370 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |