2008 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Toyota Starlet

To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota Starlet 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 265 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Starlet. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 820 kg more than 1998 Toyota Starlet. 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, 1998 Toyota Starlet, 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 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Toyota Starlet. (101 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Toyota Starlet.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW M3 1998 Toyota Starlet
Make BMW Toyota
Model M3 Starlet
Year Released 2008 1998
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1332 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 339 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4900 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 365 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 3750 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1410 mm