1997 BMW M3 vs. 2005 TVR Speed 12
To start off, 2005 TVR Speed 12 is newer by 8 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 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 TVR Speed 12 (790 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 550 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2005 TVR Speed 12.
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, 2005 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm) has 645 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2005 TVR Speed 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2005 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | M3 | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 790 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
