1998 BMW 317 vs. 2011 Infiniti M
To start off, 2011 Infiniti M is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Infiniti M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Infiniti M (235 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Infiniti M should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317.
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, 2011 Infiniti M (550 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Infiniti M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2011 Infiniti M has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Infiniti M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2011 Infiniti M | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | 317 | M |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4945 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2901 mm |
