1981 BMW 745 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1981 BMW 745. (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 745. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 745 weights approximately 26 kg more than 2008 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 1981 BMW 745 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 BMW 745 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 745 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 63 L |
