1998 BMW 320 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320.
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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
