1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is newer by 15 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage (510 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage weights approximately 380 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, 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage (569 Nm) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage | |
Make | BMW | Aston Martin |
Model | M3 | V12 Vantage |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 569 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1680 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4384 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1864 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1234 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2601 mm |