2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Dodge Intrepid
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Intrepid 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 214 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 120 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 1997 Dodge Intrepid, 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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. (257 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. 1997 Dodge Intrepid 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 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Dodge Intrepid | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | M3 | Intrepid |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3228 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5123 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
