1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 GMC Terrain
To start off, 2012 GMC Terrain 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2012 GMC Terrain. (182 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 GMC Terrain. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Terrain weights approximately 166 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 GMC Terrain, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (305 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 GMC Terrain. (233 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 GMC Terrain. 2012 GMC Terrain 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. 2012 GMC Terrain will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2012 GMC Terrain | |
Make | BMW | GMC |
Model | M3 | Terrain |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 233 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1754 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4707 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1849 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1684 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2858 mm |