1996 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 2 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 262 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. 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, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | M3 | Alero |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
