1986 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Honda Accord

To start off, 2002 Honda Accord is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Honda Accord. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Honda Accord weights approximately 266 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.

Because 1986 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 1986 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Honda Accord, 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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Accord. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Accord. 2002 Honda Accord has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 BMW M3 2002 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model M3 Accord
Year Released 1986 2002
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2302 cc 2354 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 6750 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.4 mm 87.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 99 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.7:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1436 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2630 mm