2007 Acura TL vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 Acura TL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2007 Acura TL. (258 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 2007 Acura TL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Acura TL, 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, 2007 Acura TL (316 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2007 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2007 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Acura TL | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | TL | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 258 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2730 mm |
