1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 330
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 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 12 more horse power than 2009 BMW 330. (228 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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 330 (501 Nm) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2009 BMW 330 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 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 501 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
