2004 BMW M3 vs. 1972 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1972 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 865 kg more than 1972 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1972 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2440 mm |
