1997 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2013 Porsche Cayman 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 3,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Porsche Cayman (316 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 50 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.
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 Porsche Cayman (370 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2013 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2013 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 277 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4347 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1306 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2415 mm |
