1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 135
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 13 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 26 more horse power than 2009 BMW 135. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 135. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 262 kg more than 2009 BMW 135. 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 135 (407 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 135 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 135 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
