1997 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 55 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 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | M3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
