1996 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Ferrari Maranello
To start off, 2003 Ferrari Maranello is newer by 7 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Ferrari Maranello is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ferrari Maranello (508 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ferrari Maranello should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ferrari Maranello weights approximately 43 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Ferrari Maranello (589 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Ferrari Maranello will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2003 Ferrari Maranello | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M3 | Maranello |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 508 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 589 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 105 L |
