1997 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Kia Opirus
To start off, 2007 Kia Opirus is newer by 10 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 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Kia Opirus. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Opirus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Opirus weights approximately 597 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2007 Kia Opirus, 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, 2007 Kia Opirus (298 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2007 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2007 Kia Opirus 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. 2007 Kia Opirus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2007 Kia Opirus | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | M3 | Opirus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1897 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
