2001 BMW M3 vs. 2005 BMW 316
To start off, 2005 BMW 316 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 2005 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2005 BMW 316. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 316. (175 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2005 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
