2009 BMW M3 vs. 2000 Chevrolet Prizm

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Chevrolet Prizm 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 291 more horse power than 2000 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 2000 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2000 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chevrolet Prizm. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Chevrolet Prizm.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 2000 Chevrolet Prizm
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model M3 Prizm
Year Released 2009 2000
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 1794 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 414 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 245 km/hour 177 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 117 L