2005 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Peugeot 306

To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 306. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 306 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 306. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 306. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 306. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 306, 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, 2005 BMW M3 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 306. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 306.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW M3 1997 Peugeot 306
Make BMW Peugeot
Model M3 306
Year Released 2005 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 323 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 372 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1700 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 45 L