2009 BMW 325 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2009 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2009 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 325. (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
