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. Both 2009 BMW M3 and 2008 Volkswagen Passat are equipped with a 3,999 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (271 HP @ 6000 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2008 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| 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 | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
