2008 BMW 323 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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 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 238 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3999 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
