1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2012 Subaru Forester 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 95 more horse power than 2012 Subaru Forester. (145 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Forester weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Subaru Forester is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester (350 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | M3 | Forester |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4559 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1674 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2616 mm |
