2005 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 330
To start off, 2012 BMW 330 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 BMW 330. (256 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 330.
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 330 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW M3. (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
