1996 BMW M3 vs. 1992 Pontiac Bonneville
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Pontiac Bonneville. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Pontiac Bonneville would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Pontiac Bonneville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1992 Pontiac Bonneville. (205 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Pontiac Bonneville. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Pontiac Bonneville weights approximately 48 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Pontiac Bonneville, 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, 1992 Pontiac Bonneville (353 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 1992 Pontiac Bonneville will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 1992 Pontiac Bonneville has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Pontiac Bonneville will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1992 Pontiac Bonneville | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Bonneville |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 96.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1636 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
