2001 BMW M3 vs. 1986 BMW 730
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1986 BMW 730. (197 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 730 weights approximately 50 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 730. (275 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1986 BMW 730 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
