2003 BMW M3 vs. 1997 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1997 BMW 318 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 318 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |