1997 BMW M3 vs. 1978 ZIL 117
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,958 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 ZIL 117 (296 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 ZIL 117 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 ZIL 117 weights approximately 1650 kg more than 1997 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, 1978 ZIL 117 (570 Nm) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1978 ZIL 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1978 ZIL 117 | |
| Make | BMW | ZIL |
| Model | M3 | 117 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3310 mm |
