2003 BMW M3 vs. 1973 BMW Touring
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW Touring. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW Touring 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 257 more horse power than 1973 BMW Touring. (85 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW Touring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1973 BMW Touring. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW Touring. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW Touring.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1973 BMW Touring | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | Touring |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1573 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
