2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Honda Prelude
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Prelude 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 143 more horse power than 1997 Honda Prelude. (195 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 274 kg more than 1997 Honda Prelude. 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, 1997 Honda Prelude, 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 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda Prelude. (211 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda Prelude.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Honda Prelude | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | Prelude |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2155 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1381 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
