2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Rover 200
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 200 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 @ 4900 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1997 Rover 200. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1997 Rover 200. 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 Rover 200, 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 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 200. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Rover 200 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | M3 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
