2002 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (500 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2002 BMW M3. (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche 911 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Porsche 911. (459 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Porsche 911.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1360 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2355 mm |
