1961 Maserati 3500 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Maserati 3500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Maserati 3500 would be higher. At 3,485 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Maserati 3500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Maserati 3500 (232 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Maserati 3500 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1961 Maserati 3500.
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. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1961 Maserati 3500 has manual transmission. 1961 Maserati 3500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Maserati 3500 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | 3500 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3485 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
