2006 BMW M3 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (238 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 BMW 3 Series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 204 kg more than 2013 BMW 3 Series. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (350 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 BMW 3 Series. 2013 BMW 3 Series has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 BMW 3 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10:01 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1631 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2031 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1434 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
