2004 BMW M3 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 295 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 M3 (355 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
