2004 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (530 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 115 kg more than 2012 Porsche 911.
Because 2012 Porsche 911 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Porsche 911 (699 Nm) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 530 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
