1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 8 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 85 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 106 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, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (245 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
