1986 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Scion tC
To start off, 2004 Scion tC is newer by 18 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Scion tC. (158 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Scion tC weights approximately 150 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, 2004 Scion tC, 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Scion tC. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2004 Scion tC | |
| Make | BMW | Scion |
| Model | M3 | tC |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
