1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Kia Sedona

To start off, 2011 Kia Sedona is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Kia Sedona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Sedona (271 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Sedona should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Sedona weights approximately 684 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 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, 2011 Kia Sedona, 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, 2011 Kia Sedona (336 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2011 Kia Sedona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2011 Kia Sedona 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. 2011 Kia Sedona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW M3 2011 Kia Sedona
Make BMW Kia
Model M3 Sedona
Year Released 1997 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 240 HP 271 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 236 Nm 336 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 7 seats
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1984 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 5131 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1984 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1816 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 3020 mm