1997 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Porsche 911
To start off, 2006 Porsche 911 is newer by 9 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Porsche 911 (415 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Porsche 911 weights approximately 285 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 2006 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Porsche 911 (560 Nm) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2006 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2006 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 305 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
