1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 325
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 15 kg more 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 325. (270 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 325. 2009 BMW 325 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. 2009 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
