2003 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Ferrari F355
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 Ferrari F355.
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, 1997 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1997 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1997 Ferrari F355 | |
Make | BMW | Ferrari |
Model | M3 | F355 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3491 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 8250 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1180 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 82 L |