1951 BMW 340 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 1990 BMW M3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1951 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1951 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 BMW 340 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1990 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 BMW 340 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 340 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
