1994 BMW 854 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 854. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 854 would be higher. At 5,378 cc (12 cylinders), 1994 BMW 854 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1994 BMW 854. (323 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 854.
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, 1994 BMW 854 (490 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1994 BMW 854 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 1994 BMW 854 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 BMW 854 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 854 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 854 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5378 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2770 mm |
