1998 BMW M 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 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M 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 86 more horse power than 1998 BMW M. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW M.
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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW M | 2009 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M | M3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 340 Nm | 295 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |