1961 Bentley S2 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Bentley S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Bentley S2 would be higher. At 6,230 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Bentley S2 is equipped with a bigger engine.
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. 1961 Bentley S2 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1961 Bentley S2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bentley S2 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Bentley | BMW |
| Model | S2 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6230 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 414 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5380 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 63 L |
