1975 BMW 520 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 34 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 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 291 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 25 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| 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 | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
