1997 BMW M3 vs. 1972 TVR 1600
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 TVR 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 TVR 1600 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1972 TVR 1600. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 TVR 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 404 kg more than 1972 TVR 1600. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 TVR 1600. (125 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 TVR 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1972 TVR 1600 | |
| Make | BMW | TVR |
| Model | M3 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
