2009 BMW 330 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 273 kg more than 2003 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 330 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
