How would you guys compare both cars performance wise and in handling also.

Thanks in advance!

 

The M3 is due for replacement sometime after the launch of the new generation 3 series. The new M3 will supposedly have a 4 liter V8 engine based on the new M5's V10. Until someone's driven that car agains the 997S the discussion is really a mute point.

I test drove and M3 when I was looking at a 996 and came to the conclusion that whilst it was a very very good car, it wasn't really a sports car like the 996, nor did it have that sense of history (iconic status?) that the 911 has.

The 996 was more money and not a lot of on paper performance superiority, but the difference in driving the two is night and day. But like all the choices at that price level, there's only one person who can choose what's best.

 

all reviews would indicate that the 997 is a significantly better driving car than the 996. i cannot speak from seat time in a 997, but i can tell you compared to a 996 or even 993, the E46 M3 is not in the same leauge.

having owned an E46 M3, driven 996s extensively, and owning a 993, i would say that the M3 is more of a practical, fast car. it is comfortable, has a trunk, blends in with traffic, and is scary fast in a straight line. it is well built and the engine is silky smooth. i think the engine is worth the price of the car.

however, a 911 is a different driving experience...the snarl of the engine behind you, low to the ground, excellent handling, the small feel of the cabin, etc.

if you want a fast, practical GT-type car, get an M3 or S4...if you want that sports car feel, go with the 997.

postscript: the M3 Competition Package for 2005 is pretty cool, with compound brakes, forged wheels, tighter suspension, etc. however, what will really be interesting is the over 500hp M6 that will be out in a couple years...

 

M6 will only be 483 HP FYI - there was a thread on this somewhere....reason is that they are using the 760i engine not the new M5 (info also on bmw's US site)

 

Right now I'm selling my E46 M3 to step up to a Carrera S, thats why I wanted a comparison on both...How about the depreciation on a Carrera S? (speed yellow)

 

I have never driven a new Carerra S, but have an e46 M3 as well as my 996, the lease is up in a few weeks though.

I am/was thrilled with the m3. the car is fantastic, great all around. However, it still feels awfully sedan like compared to when I drive my 996.

 

carrera s should easily beat e46 m3's i believe. in straight line, my c32 has beaten (edged out) several e46 m3's, my record is 9-1. granted all races were only 1/2 - 1.5 carlengths win. yet carrera s would smoke me handliy. handling, m3 will smoke me, but i have confidence in the carrera s

 

Actually this is not correct....

A Quote from http://www.bmwusa.com/Vehicles/futurevehicles/newM6/ :

"Based on the new 6 Series, the new M6 shares its drivetrain with the recently introduced M5. The new V-10 produces 500 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque. Engineered to rev with a redline of 8,250, this new engine offers 100 horsepower per liter of displacement. Pure race-car territory. "

Regards,

 

a m3 is 330ci on steriod. It does not have the history or the dynamics of a true sports car. it's a coupe with sports car influence. the engine is great and the luxuries make it a good daily driving package. However, i think the m3 is for younger people and for the mass. Whereas the 911 is for pure driving and throughbred car.

Raja

 

I wound up buying a C55 over an M3 and the 997 a few months ago. I really enjoy the car as it is very quick and handles reasonably well, however, it is certainly not a true sports car and I still entertain the idea of getting a 911.

If you truly want a sports car and you don't need the practicality of a functional rear seat or substantial trunk space I wouldn't hesistate. I hate to admit it, but there rally isn't anything like a Porsche or the feeling you get driving one.

 

I like the look of M3 drivers when they see my 996. They just drool at the sight of a 996 after thinking they own the road.

Comparing M3 & 997 S would be like comparing a EVO to a NSX. Both equally fast but one is refined and pure.

 

Uh... what? The m6 even on bmw's site shows it with a v10 from the m5.

 

i agree 911 is a better car through and through in all aspects than M3...but i will disagree with you on m3 being a 330ci on steroids

individual throttle bodies, over 100hp / liter, semi dry-sump lubrication, high bore/stroke ratio, dual vanos, forged con rods and crank, nikasil coated head liners, 11.5:1 compression, stock widebody, so much more than just a 330ci

this is not to take away from the 911, but i think i give the m3 more credit.

 

I was gonna tell you that you are wrong, but several have already done that...

 

The M6,definitly, comes with the V10 from the M5. I've seen both cars close up and personal and ,actually, test-drove the M5.