2009 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 3 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 133 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (281 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 588 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Traverse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 83 L |
