2005 BMW 318 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 9 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, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2005 BMW 318. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (175 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
