1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Scion tC
To start off, 2011 Scion tC 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2011 Scion tC. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Scion tC weights approximately 88 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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 Scion tC, 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Scion tC. (234 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Scion tC. 2011 Scion tC 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 Scion tC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2011 Scion tC | |
| Make | BMW | Scion |
| Model | M3 | tC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
