1998 BMW 325 vs. 2012 BMW 330
To start off, 2012 BMW 330 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 330 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325.
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, 2012 BMW 330 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2012 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
