2005 BMW 330 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW 330 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2005 BMW 330. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 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 127 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2005 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 330 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
