1996 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 1997 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1997 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | BMW | Jeep |
| Model | M3 | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
