2003 BMW M3 vs. 1976 BMW 3.3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1976 BMW 3.3. (194 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 109 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 BMW 3.3. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 BMW 3.3. 1976 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1976 BMW 3.3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 3.3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 194 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1494 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |