2004 BMW M3 vs. 1984 Maserati 420
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Maserati 420 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 120 more horse power than 1984 Maserati 420. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Maserati 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1984 Maserati 420. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Maserati 420. (308 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Maserati 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1984 Maserati 420 | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | M3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 308 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2610 mm |
