1996 BMW M3 vs. 1982 BMW 325
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1982 BMW 325. (120 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 492 kg more than 1982 BMW 325. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 325. (230 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1982 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
