2003 BMW M3 vs. 1972 Honda Z
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Z would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1972 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 875 kg more than 1972 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Honda Z, 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1972 Honda Z | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 30 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 62.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 57.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2010 mm |
