1988 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (240 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 414 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
