2009 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Rover 200
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 200 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 311 more horse power than 1996 Rover 200. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1996 Rover 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Rover 200, 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 200. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1996 Rover 200 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | M3 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
