1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 BMW X6
To start off, 2011 BMW X6 is newer by 15 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, 2011 BMW X6 (304 HP @ 440 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X6 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X6 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X6 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, 2011 BMW X6 (600 Nm) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2011 BMW X6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 BMW X6 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW X6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 BMW X6 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | X6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 304 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 440 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4877 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1983 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
