2009 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC 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 234 more horse power than 2012 Scion tC. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Scion tC weights approximately 3 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 Scion tC, 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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion tC. (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | BMW | Scion |
| Model | M3 | tC |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
