1996 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Maserati Quattroporte
To start off, 2006 Maserati Quattroporte is newer by 10 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 4,243 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Maserati Quattroporte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Maserati Quattroporte (395 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Maserati Quattroporte should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2006 Maserati Quattroporte.
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, 2006 Maserati Quattroporte (442 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2006 Maserati Quattroporte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2006 Maserati Quattroporte | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | M3 | Quattroporte |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 4243 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 395 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 442 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3070 mm |
