1996 BMW M3 vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 17 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 200 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, 2013 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2013 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2013 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0 : 1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4618 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1418 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
