2001 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP) has 250 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 765 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Ballade, 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1981 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1334 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2330 mm |
