2003 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Rover Vitesse
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Rover Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Rover Vitesse would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1988 Rover Vitesse. (178 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Rover Vitesse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Rover Vitesse weights approximately 42 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Rover Vitesse. (229 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Rover Vitesse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1988 Rover Vitesse | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | M3 | Vitesse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2675 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
