1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (285 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 406 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 2012 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 Jeep Wrangler (352 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | BMW | Jeep |
| Model | M3 | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3881 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1826 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2423 mm |
