1997 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta 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) has 165 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (109 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 158 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
