1991 BMW M12 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 17 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, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2740 mm |
