1996 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Acura CL

To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 6 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2002 Acura CL. (260 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2002 Acura CL. 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, 2002 Acura CL, 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura CL. (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura CL.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW M3 2002 Acura CL
Make BMW Acura
Model M3 CL
Year Released 1996 2002
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3169 cc 3210 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 328 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 6900 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.4 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 9.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1632 kg 1580 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 65 L


 

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