2003 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 143 kg more than 2003 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |