1996 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Seat Ibiza
To start off, 1997 Seat Ibiza 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1997 Seat Ibiza. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Seat Ibiza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 653 kg more than 1997 Seat Ibiza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Seat Ibiza, 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Seat Ibiza. (87 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Seat Ibiza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1997 Seat Ibiza | |
| Make | BMW | Seat |
| Model | M3 | Ibiza |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 67.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 70.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
