1988 BMW M3 vs. 2006 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2006 BMW 325 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, 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2006 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
