2008 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Vector M12
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Vector M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Vector M12 would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2008 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1998 Vector M12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1998 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1998 Vector M12 | |
| Make | BMW | Vector |
| Model | M3 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2750 mm |
