2004 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1974 Ford Fairlane. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 323 kg more than 1974 Ford Fairlane. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Fairlane. (325 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1974 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2950 mm |
