1986 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
