1987 BMW 318 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 318 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
