2001 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 320

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 7 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 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. 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 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 2008 BMW 320
Make BMW BMW
Model M3 320
Year Released 2001 2008
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 2171 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 326 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 355 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 10.8:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 226 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.5 seconds 8.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1655 kg 1470 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.1 L/100km 8.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 63 L


 

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