2003 BMW 330 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series

To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 10 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (238 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2013 BMW 3 Series.

Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (350 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 BMW 3 Series. 2013 BMW 3 Series has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 BMW 3 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 330 2013 BMW 3 Series
Make BMW BMW
Model 330 3 Series
Year Released 2003 2013
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 184 HP 238 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 410 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 10:01
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual 8-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1805 kg 1570 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4636 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 2031 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1429 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L