2003 BMW 330 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 330 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2008 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 330 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
