2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (240 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 44 kg more than 2008 BMW M3.
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 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3789 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 339 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1614 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |