2009 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Punto.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Punto, 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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Punto. (84 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1996 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | M3 | Punto |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
