1999 BMW 318 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (192 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 M3 (400 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (355 Nm). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2761 mm |
