2004 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Porsche 911
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche 911 (537 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1997 Porsche 911.
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 Porsche 911 (600 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 1997 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1997 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3164 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 537 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 74.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
