1988 BMW M3 vs. 2006 BMW 320
To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 18 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 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 319 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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, 1988 BMW M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 320. 2006 BMW 320 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. 2006 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW M3 | 2006 BMW 320 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 320 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |