1988 BMW M3 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 15 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 509 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2003 BMW 330 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. 2003 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW M3 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 330 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 184 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 410 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |