1997 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2004 Porsche Boxster 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 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 15 more horse power than 2004 Porsche Boxster. (225 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Porsche Boxster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 50 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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 Porsche Boxster (260 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2004 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2004 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
