2001 BMW 318 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 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 298 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
