1996 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze

To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. (134 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 181 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. (201 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW M3 2013 Chevrolet Cruze
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model M3 Cruze
Year Released 1996 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3001 cc 1400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 326 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4900 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 201 Nm
Engine Bore Size 86.2 mm 72 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.9 mm 82 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1588 kg 1407 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4597 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1796 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1476 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2685 mm