1972 BMW Touring vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW Touring. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW Touring would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 331 more horse power than 1972 BMW Touring. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW Touring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1972 BMW Touring. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW Touring. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW Touring.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW Touring | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Touring | M3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1574 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2761 mm |
