1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Porsche 911
To start off, 2004 Porsche 911 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 3,989 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche 911 (476 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 73 kg more than 2004 Porsche 911.
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, 2004 Porsche 911 (640 Nm) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2004 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2004 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 476 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 640 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2360 mm |
