1997 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Maserati MC12
To start off, 2004 Maserati MC12 is newer by 7 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Maserati MC12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Maserati MC12 (622 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 382 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Maserati MC12 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Maserati MC12 weights approximately 35 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, 2004 Maserati MC12 (652 Nm) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2004 Maserati MC12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2004 Maserati MC12 | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | M3 | MC12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 622 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 652 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
