1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2012 Toyota RAV4 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 61 more horse power than 2012 Toyota RAV4. (179 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 258 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota RAV4. (233 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota RAV4. 2012 Toyota RAV4 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. 2012 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | M3 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| 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 | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2659 mm |
