1981 BMW 745 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 30 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 BMW 745. (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 745. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1981 BMW 745. 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 745. (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 745.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 745 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 63 L |
