2009 BMW M3 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 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 174 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
