2003 BMW 320 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 320 | M3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 295 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |