1978 BMW B7 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW B7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW B7 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW B7 weights approximately 200 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, 1978 BMW B7 (627 Nm) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1978 BMW B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW B7 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | B7 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 240 HP |
| Torque | 627 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Top Speed | 262 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1300 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
