2008 BMW 320 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1996 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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1480 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
