1988 BMW M3 vs. 1983 Honda Accord

To start off, 1988 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Honda Accord would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1983 Honda Accord. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1983 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Honda Accord. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Honda Accord.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW M3 1983 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model M3 Accord
Year Released 1988 1983
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2303 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 221 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6750 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 128 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2460 mm