1997 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Chevrolet Camaro
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Camaro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Camaro would be higher. At 4,375 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Camaro. (123 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Camaro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 145 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, 1980 Chevrolet Camaro (291 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1980 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1980 Chevrolet Camaro | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Camaro |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4375 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
