1959 BMW 600 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 600 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 220 more horse power than 1959 BMW 600. (20 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1959 BMW 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 600. (38 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 600 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 600 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 581 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 38 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2910 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1710 mm | 2710 mm |
