2006 BMW 325 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 9 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 51 more horse power than 2006 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 195 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, 2006 BMW 325 (245 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 236 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 | 1495 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 |
