2003 BMW 320 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 86 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 320. (210 Nm). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 234 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
