1962 BMW 1500 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1500 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 334 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1500. (80 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1500.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1500. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1500 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 1500 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2770 mm |
