2008 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP) has 306 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 886 kg more than 1996 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Panda, 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1996 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | M3 | Panda |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 33 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
