1997 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2001 Porsche 996 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche 996 weights approximately 105 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.
Because 2001 Porsche 996 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 Porsche 996 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 Porsche 996 (370 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2001 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
