1981 GMC Jimmy 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 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 175 kg more than 2011 BMW M3.
Because 1981 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Jimmy will offer significantly more control. 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 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Jimmy. 1981 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Jimmy | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | GMC | BMW |
| Model | Jimmy | M3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2761 mm |
