2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Lancia Kappa

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lancia Kappa 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 197 more horse power than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (217 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 Lancia Kappa. 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, 1998 Lancia Kappa, 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (309 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lancia Kappa.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1998 Lancia Kappa
Make BMW Lancia
Model M3 Kappa
Year Released 2009 1998
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 1928 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 414 HP 217 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 309 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 8.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1455 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4570 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2710 mm