1997 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 82 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 170 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 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix (251 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix 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. 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
