2009 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 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 242 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 780 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2011 Volkswagen T5 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
