2009 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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 134 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (280 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 635 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | M3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4796 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
