1997 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 4 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, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 420 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe (255 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe 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. 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | M3 | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
