Porsche 911

vs

BMW M Roadster

Germany vs Germany — 1994 vs 1998

Porsche 911 (1994)
BMW M Roadster (1998)
Specifications
911 Carrera (993)M Roadster S54
Horsepower272 hp315 hp
Torque243 lb-ft258 lb-ft
Engine Size3,600 cc3,246 cc
0-60 mph5.4 sec4.9 sec
Top Speed168 mph155 mph
¼ Mile13.7 sec13.4 sec
Weight3,020 lbs3,086 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,446 mm
Length4,245 mm4,025 mm
Units Produced68,0296,291
Original MSRP$63,750$42,370
Value (Excellent)$200,000$65,000
Collectibility9/107/10
Rarity4/106/10
The Verdict

The 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The 1994 Porsche 911 Carrera (993) counters with higher top speed, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1994 Porsche 911 Carrera (993) and 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 is one for the ages. These Modern classic machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 315 hp compared to 272 hp, a 43-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 uses a Flat-6 SOHC air-cooled displacing 3,600 cc, while the BMW M Roadster relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V with 3,246 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 5.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 6,291 units built, the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911's 68,029 examples. On the collector market, the 1994 Porsche 911 Carrera (993) commands a significant premium over the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1994 Porsche 911 Carrera (993) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.