2003 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Holden GTS
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Holden GTS weights approximately 90 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden GTS. (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden GTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1978 Holden GTS | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | M3 | GTS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
