2009 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 301 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
