1986 BMW 325 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
