2004 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320.
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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (190 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
