2009 BMW 330 vs. 2004 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2009 BMW 330. (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2009 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 330 (500 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 330 | 2004 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 63 L |
