2002 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 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 108 more horse power than 2012 BMW 328. (230 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 328. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 328 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 328. (271 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 328. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 328 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 328 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 328 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4536 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 57 L |
