2008 BMW 320 vs. 2009 BMW M3

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 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 246 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 2009 BMW M3
Make BMW BMW
Model 320 M3
Year Released 2008 2009
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 3999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 168 HP 414 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 8300 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3900 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 12.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 222 km/hour 245 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.1 seconds 5.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1810 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 12.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 63 L


 

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