1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom
To start off, 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom 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 6,700 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom (453 HP @ 5350 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom weights approximately 1042 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.
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 Rolls-Royce Phantom (719 Nm) has 414 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom 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 Rolls-Royce Phantom will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom | |
| Make | BMW | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | M3 | Phantom |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 6700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 453 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5350 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 2630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5839 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1638 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3571 mm |
