1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Rover 45
To start off, 2004 Rover 45 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 138 more horse power than 2004 Rover 45. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2004 Rover 45. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Rover 45, 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 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Rover 45. (123 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Rover 45.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2004 Rover 45 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | M3 | 45 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
