2006 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Porsche Panamera
To start off, 2011 Porsche Panamera is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Porsche Panamera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2011 Porsche Panamera. (300 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Porsche Panamera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Porsche Panamera weights approximately 165 kg more than 2006 BMW M3.
Because 2011 Porsche Panamera is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Porsche Panamera 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, 2011 Porsche Panamera (400 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 Porsche Panamera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2011 Porsche Panamera | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | Panamera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4968 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2918 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
