1980 BMW 316 vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 810 kg more than 1980 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 316 | 2013 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4618 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |
