2004 BMW 316 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 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 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 67 kg more than 2004 BMW 316. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 316 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
