2009 BMW M3 vs. 2000 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 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 244 more horse power than 2000 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 320 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 320. (211 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 320. 2000 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2000 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 219 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
