2003 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Buick GS
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1974 Buick GS. (190 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Buick GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Buick GS weights approximately 188 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, 1974 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1974 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1974 Buick GS | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | GS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 5724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 394 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
