1988 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 284 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | M3 | CL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 65 L |
