1988 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 20 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (263 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 56 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent, 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (339 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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. 2008 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2008 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
