2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet SSR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet SSR would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet SSR. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet SSR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 269 kg more than 2012 BMW M3.
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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW M3. 2003 Chevrolet SSR has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet SSR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | SSR | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2761 mm |
