1997 BMW M3 vs. 1986 BMW 735
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 735. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 735 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 735 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1986 BMW 735. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 735. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 735 weights approximately 386 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, 1986 BMW 735 (310 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1986 BMW 735 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1986 BMW 735 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 735 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
