2001 BMW 318 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318.
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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm). This means 1997 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 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
