1984 Honda Civic vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Honda Civic 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) has 314 more horse power than 1984 Honda Civic. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1984 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Honda Civic, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Honda Civic. (130 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Honda Civic | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Honda | BMW |
| Model | Civic | M3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2761 mm |
