2003 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 240 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 172 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
