2005 BMW 330 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW 330 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 BMW 330. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 330 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2005 BMW 330 (300 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW 330 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 330 | M3 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 236 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |