2004 BMW 118 vs. 2002 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW 118 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 2004 BMW 118. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2004 BMW 118. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 118. (280 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 118. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 118 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 118 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 118 | 2002 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 118 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 67 L |
