1986 BMW M3 vs. 2007 BMW 740
To start off, 2007 BMW 740 is newer by 21 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 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 740 (302 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 740 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. 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, 2007 BMW 740 (390 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3. 2007 BMW 740 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. 2007 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2007 BMW 740 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3140 mm |
