1976 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta 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 362 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 1155 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Ford Fiesta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Fiesta | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Fiesta | M3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 63 L |
