2003 BMW M3 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 28 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, 2004 BMW 318 (355 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 318 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 355 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |