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 212 more horse power than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (202 HP @ 5600 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. 1998 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 25 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, 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (298 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 | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
