1997 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 11 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
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, 2008 Ford Taurus, 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, 2008 Ford Taurus (338 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2008 Ford Taurus 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. 2008 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2008 Ford Taurus | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M3 | Taurus |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6251 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 338 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |