1997 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Porsche 911
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 911. (232 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1981 Porsche 911. 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, 1981 Porsche 911 (284 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1981 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1981 Porsche 911 | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | M3 | 911 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3164 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 284 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |