2006 BMW M3 vs. 2003 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2003 BMW 325. (192 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 69 kg more than 2003 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2003 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
