1996 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Vibe will offer significantly more control. 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 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2003 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
