1997 BMW M3 vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (97 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 345 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4095 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2900 mm |
