2009 Bentley Continental GT vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Bentley Continental GT is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,996 cc, 2009 Bentley Continental GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Bentley Continental GT (592 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Bentley Continental GT should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Bentley Continental GT weights approximately 1107 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Bentley Continental GT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Bentley Continental GT will offer significantly more control. 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 Continental GT (553 Nm) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2009 Bentley Continental GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2009 Bentley Continental GT has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Bentley Continental GT will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Bentley Continental GT | 1996 BMW M3 | |
Make | Bentley | BMW |
Model | Continental GT | M3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5996 cc | 3001 cc |
Engine Type | W | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 592 HP | 326 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 553 Nm | 305 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 104.2 mm | 86.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2695 kg | 1588 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5400 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3120 mm | 2730 mm |