1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Porsche 911
To start off, 2009 Porsche 911 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Porsche 911 (409 HP @ 7600 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Porsche 911 weights approximately 125 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.
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 Porsche 911 (405 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 409 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 310 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1290 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
