2004 BMW 325 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 2004 BMW 325. (116 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2004 BMW 325. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 325. (222 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 325. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 325 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
