2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (193 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 590 kg more than 2009 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Express |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 6505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 583 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3440 mm |
