1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Ford Mustang 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Mustang 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 2009 Ford Mustang.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Mustang (434 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Ford Mustang | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M3 | Mustang |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4606 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 434 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |