1996 BMW M3 vs. 1987 BMW M6
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW M6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW M6 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW M6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW M6 (282 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW M6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW M6 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1987 BMW M6 (334 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 1987 BMW M6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1987 BMW M6 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | M6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
