1973 BMW 525 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 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 271 more horse power than 1973 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 525.
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 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 525. (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 525 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
