2002 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2012 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 BMW 118. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 118. (300 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 118 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 51 L |
