1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Silverado (315 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 69 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado (458 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2011 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 458 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 6340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 4010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 129 L |
