1991 BMW M12 vs. 2005 Porsche 996
To start off, 2005 Porsche 996 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
Because 2005 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW M12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Porsche 996. (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Porsche 996.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2005 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M12 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 3594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2360 mm |
