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.
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, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 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 | 92.1 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 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
