2001 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Aston Martin Rapide
To start off, 2011 Aston Martin Rapide is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,900 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Aston Martin Rapide is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Aston Martin Rapide (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Aston Martin Rapide should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Aston Martin Rapide weights approximately 400 kg more than 2001 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, 2011 Aston Martin Rapide (600 Nm) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (330 Nm). This means 2011 Aston Martin Rapide will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2011 Aston Martin Rapide has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Aston Martin Rapide will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2011 Aston Martin Rapide | |
| Make | BMW | Aston Martin |
| Model | M3 | Rapide |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 5900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5019 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1359 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2990 mm |
