1986 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (200 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 360 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Lumina |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2740 mm |
