1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (345 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2012 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, 2012 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, 2012 Porsche 911 (390 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4465 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1311 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
