1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Porsche 911
To start off, 2011 Porsche 911 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Porsche 911 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Porsche 911 weights approximately 57 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 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 (650 Nm) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2011 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2350 mm |
