2000 BMW 325 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2000 BMW 325 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2000 BMW 325. (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 325 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 325. (245 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 325. 2000 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 325 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
