1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 2004 Mercury Monterey 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Monterey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP) has 127 more horse power than 2004 Mercury Monterey. (201 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercury Monterey. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 337 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 Mercury Monterey, 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, 2004 Mercury Monterey (357 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Monterey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercury Monterey | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | M3 | Monterey |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1969 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 98 L |
