2004 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 BMW 325 is newer by 8 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 100 more horse power than 2012 BMW 325. (217 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 325.
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, 2012 BMW 325 (450 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| 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 | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
