2003 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 120
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 5 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 79 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 92 kg more than 2008 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2008 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2008 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| 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 | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
