1997 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Honda Accord
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Accord 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 106 more horse power than 1996 Honda Accord. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Accord weights approximately 65 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda Accord, 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Accord. (184 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1996 Honda Accord | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | Accord |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
