1978 BMW 725 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 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 266 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2761 mm |
