2003 BMW M3 vs. 1997 TVR Speed 12
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 TVR Speed 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Speed 12 would be higher. At 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (800 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 458 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 383 kg more than 1997 TVR Speed 12.
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 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 531 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Speed 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1997 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | M3 | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 800 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 337 km/hour |
| 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 | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
