1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 16 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Ford Mustang. (305 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 39 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 2012 Ford Mustang (379 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1627 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
