2004 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Lancia Delta
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Delta 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 242 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Delta. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 839 kg more than 1981 Lancia Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Delta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Delta. (105 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Delta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1981 Lancia Delta | |
| Make | BMW | Lancia |
| Model | M3 | Delta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2480 mm |
