2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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, 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | BMW | Jeep |
| Model | M3 | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 98.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
