2001 Acura RSX vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 Acura RSX is newer by 4 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 82 more horse power than 2001 Acura RSX. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2001 Acura RSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Acura RSX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Acura RSX. (192 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RSX | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RSX | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |
