1978 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Noble M12
To start off, 2003 Noble M12 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 2003 Noble M12. (335 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2003 Noble M12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Noble M12 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 2003 Noble M12 | |
| Make | BMW | Noble |
| Model | 320 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
