2001 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Porsche Panamera
To start off, 2011 Porsche Panamera 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Porsche Panamera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Porsche Panamera (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Porsche Panamera should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Porsche Panamera weights approximately 375 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.
Because 2011 Porsche Panamera is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Porsche Panamera 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, 2011 Porsche Panamera (699 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (502 Nm). This means 2011 Porsche Panamera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Porsche Panamera has manual transmission. 2011 Porsche Panamera 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 | 2011 Porsche Panamera | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | Panamera |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4968 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2918 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
