1996 BMW M3 vs. 2000 BMW 325
To start off, 2000 BMW 325 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2000 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 46 kg more than 2000 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 (305 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 325. (245 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2000 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
