2001 BMW 318 vs. 1996 BMW M3

To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 5 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 192 kg more than 2001 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 318 1996 BMW M3
Make BMW BMW
Model 318 M3
Year Released 2001 1996
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 3169 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 116 HP 328 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 7400 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 91 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 11.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1440 kg 1632 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 63 L


 

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