2001 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Porsche 911

To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1988 Porsche 911. (246 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1988 Porsche 911. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 911 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 911. (310 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 911. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1988 Porsche 911 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 1988 Porsche 911
Make BMW Porsche
Model M3 911
Year Released 2001 1988
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 3246 cc 3598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 342 HP 246 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 502 Nm 310 Nm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 260 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1595 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2270 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 77 L