1997 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Toyota Soarer
To start off, 2004 Toyota Soarer 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 4,292 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Soarer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Soarer (276 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Soarer should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota Soarer weights approximately 430 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 1997 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Soarer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Toyota Soarer (430 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2004 Toyota Soarer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2004 Toyota Soarer 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. 2004 Toyota Soarer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2004 Toyota Soarer | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | M3 | Soarer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
