2009 Bentley Azure vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Bentley Azure is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 6,761 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Bentley Azure is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Bentley Azure (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Bentley Azure should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2009 Bentley Azure (738 Nm) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Bentley Azure will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2009 Bentley Azure has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Bentley Azure will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Bentley Azure | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Bentley | BMW |
| Model | Azure | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6761 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 738 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 288 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5410 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3120 mm | 2710 mm |
