1997 BMW M3 vs. 1985 Ford Orion
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Orion 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 172 more horse power than 1985 Ford Orion. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1985 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Orion, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Orion. (101 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1985 Ford Orion | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Orion |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
