1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Fiat Grande Punto
To start off, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto 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 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 166 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto. 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, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto. (190 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Fiat Grande Punto | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | M3 | Grande Punto |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 17.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
