1995 BMW 317 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 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 324 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. 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 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
1995 BMW 317 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 317 | M3 |
Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |