1998 BMW 320 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 320 | M3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2169 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 342 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7900 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 91 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 259 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |