1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 12 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 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1237 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 2009 Dodge Ram 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, 2009 Dodge Ram 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, 2009 Dodge Ram (448 Nm) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2009 Dodge Ram 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. 2009 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | M3 | Ram |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 448 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3560 mm |
