2009 BMW M3 vs. 1987 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1987 BMW 320. (189 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1987 BMW 320. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1987 BMW 320 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 320 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6900 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 93.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 72.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1218 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |