2009 BMW 320 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 6 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. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 83 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, 2009 BMW 320 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2009 BMW 320 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. 2009 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 320 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 320 | M3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1442 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |