1994 BMW M3 vs. 2006 BMW 320
To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2006 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1994 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, 1994 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 320. 2006 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1994 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW M3 | 2006 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
