1986 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2001 Porsche 996 is newer by 15 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche 996 weights approximately 235 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 2001 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 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. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2360 mm |
