2008 BMW 325 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 240 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
