1997 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Aston Martin Rapide
To start off, 2013 Aston Martin Rapide is newer by 16 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 5,935 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Aston Martin Rapide is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Aston Martin Rapide weights approximately 690 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2013 Aston Martin Rapide (601 Nm) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2013 Aston Martin Rapide will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2013 Aston Martin Rapide 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. 2013 Aston Martin Rapide will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2013 Aston Martin Rapide | |
| Make | BMW | Aston Martin |
| Model | M3 | Rapide |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5935 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 0 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 601 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5019 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2989 mm |
