1997 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2002 Panoz AIV is newer by 5 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2002 Panoz AIV.
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, 2002 Panoz AIV (408 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2002 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2002 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | BMW | Panoz |
| Model | M3 | AIV |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
