2008 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Steyr G-series
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Steyr G-series. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Steyr G-series would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1996 Steyr G-series. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Steyr G-series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Steyr G-series weights approximately 435 kg more than 2008 BMW M3.
Because 1996 Steyr G-series is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Steyr G-series 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Steyr G-series. (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Steyr G-series. 1996 Steyr G-series has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Steyr G-series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1996 Steyr G-series | |
| Make | BMW | Steyr |
| Model | M3 | G-series |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 2090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
