2003 BMW M3 vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 TVR Chimaera. (225 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 TVR Chimaera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | M3 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
