1975 BMW 520 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 147 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1975 BMW 520 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 520 | M3 |
Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1442 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |