1988 BMW M3 vs. 2013 BMW 6 series
To start off, 2013 BMW 6 series is newer by 25 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 4,395 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW 6 series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 6 series (437 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 6 series should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 6 series weights approximately 800 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 2013 BMW 6 series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW 6 series 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, 2013 BMW 6 series (649 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 6 series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2013 BMW 6 series 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. 2013 BMW 6 series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2013 BMW 6 series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 6 series |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 4395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 437 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4896 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 2081 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
