1974 BMW 3 vs. 2010 BMW M3
To start off, 2010 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW M3 weights approximately 452 kg more than 1974 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, 2010 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2010 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2010 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2761 mm |
