2001 BMW M3 vs. 1958 Riley 4

To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Riley 4 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1958 Riley 4. (63 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1958 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1958 Riley 4. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Riley 4. (115 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Riley 4. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1958 Riley 4 has manual transmission. 1958 Riley 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 1958 Riley 4
Make BMW Riley
Model M3 4
Year Released 2001 1958
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1489 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 342 HP 63 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 502 Nm 115 Nm
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1595 kg 1140 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1530 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2530 mm