1972 BMW 3 vs. 2007 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 BMW M3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW M3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. 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, 2007 BMW M3 (366 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2007 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
