2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Porsche Panamera
To start off, 2012 Porsche Panamera is newer by 11 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Panamera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2012 Porsche Panamera. (300 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Porsche Panamera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Panamera weights approximately 105 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
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, 2012 Porsche Panamera (400 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Panamera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2012 Porsche Panamera 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. 2012 Porsche Panamera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Porsche Panamera | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | Panamera |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4968 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1931 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1408 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
