1997 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari

To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 5,032 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. (138 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 585 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.

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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari (346 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW M3 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari
Make BMW Pontiac
Model M3 Grand Safari
Year Released 1997 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 5032 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 240 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 3200 RPM
Torque 236 Nm 346 Nm
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1885 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 5450 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 2020 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2950 mm


 

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