1994 BMW 318 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 1994 BMW 318 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1994 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 318 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 318 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
