2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 400 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 312 more horse power than 1997 Rover 400. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 400.
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 Rover 400, 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 400. (182 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Rover 400 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | M3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| 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 | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
