2004 BMW 320 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 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, 2004 BMW 320 (355 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 320 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 320 | M3 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 236 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 221 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |