1996 BMW 545 vs. 2002 BMW M3
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 BMW 545. (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 545. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 545 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2002 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, 1996 BMW 545 (440 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 545 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 545 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 545 | 2002 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 545 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
