1977 BMW 520 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 520 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 1977 BMW 520 (280 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1977 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
