1997 BMW M3 vs. 1961 Maserati 3500
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Maserati 3500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Maserati 3500 would be higher. At 3,485 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Maserati 3500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1961 Maserati 3500. (232 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Maserati 3500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Maserati 3500 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 1961 Maserati 3500 (320 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1961 Maserati 3500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1961 Maserati 3500 | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | M3 | 3500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
