1996 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Montana 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Montana. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Montana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 240 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 2003 Pontiac Montana, 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 (320 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Montana. (285 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Montana. 2003 Pontiac Montana has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Pontiac Montana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2003 Pontiac Montana | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Montana |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
