2009 BMW 318 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (181 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 318 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 318 | M3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 127 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 236 Nm |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |