1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Fiat Grande Punto

To start off, 2009 Fiat Grande Punto 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Grande Punto. (119 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Grande Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 Fiat Grande Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2009 Fiat Grande Punto, 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Grande Punto. (206 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Grande Punto.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW M3 2009 Fiat Grande Punto
Make BMW Fiat
Model M3 Grande Punto
Year Released 1997 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 1368 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 240 HP 119 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 236 Nm 206 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.8:1
Top Speed 220 km/hour 195 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1230 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4040 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2520 mm