2001 BMW M3 vs. 1981 BMW 745
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 BMW 745. (252 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 745. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 745 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2001 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (330 Nm). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1981 BMW 745 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 745 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
