1996 BMW M3 vs. 2006 BMW 130
To start off, 2006 BMW 130 is newer by 10 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 1996 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 M3 (320 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 130. (315 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 130. 2006 BMW 130 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 130 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2006 BMW 130 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 130 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
