2006 BMW 330 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 330 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2006 BMW 330. (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 330.
Because 2006 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 330. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 330 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
