1980 BMW 725 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 725 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1980 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 725. (215 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 725 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
