1993 BMW 316 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 1993 BMW 316. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1993 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 316. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW 316 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
