1997 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Porsche 936
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 936. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 936 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Porsche 936 (632 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Porsche 936 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1981 Porsche 936.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1981 Porsche 936 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 936 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2650 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 632 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 775 kg |
