2002 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Honda Civic
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 391 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 422 kg more than 1978 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Honda Civic, 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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW M3 | 1978 Honda Civic | |
Make | BMW | Honda |
Model | M3 | Civic |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3997 cc | 1169 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 444 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 480 Nm | 79 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 678 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2210 mm |