1997 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Triumph TR7 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 136 more horse power than 1979 Triumph TR7. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1979 Triumph TR7. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Triumph TR7. (161 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Triumph TR7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1979 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | BMW | Triumph |
| Model | M3 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2170 mm |
