2002 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 290 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 3795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1390 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
