1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (175 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (301 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Jeep | BMW |
| Model | Grand Cherokee | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3960 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1392 mm |
