1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2009 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 13 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 3,777 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2009 Jeep Wrangler. (196 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 173 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2009 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Jeep Wrangler. (315 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | BMW | Jeep |
| Model | M3 | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
