2009 BMW M3 vs. 1991 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 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 265 more horse power than 1991 BMW 320. (149 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 320.
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 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1991 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
