1984 BMW 323 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 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 266 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1984 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
