2003 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 8 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 84 more horse power than 2011 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 201 kg more than 2011 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Forte.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | M3 | Forte |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
