2004 BMW 645 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW 645 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW 645 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 645 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 645 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 645 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. 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, 2004 BMW 645 (450 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 645 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 645 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 645 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2730 mm |
