1997 BMW M3 vs. 2000 Honda NSX
To start off, 2000 Honda NSX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Honda NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Honda NSX weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. 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, 2000 Honda NSX (304 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2000 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2000 Honda NSX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
