2006 BMW M3 vs. 1984 Ford Orion
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Orion would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP) has 260 more horse power than 1984 Ford Orion. (78 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 643 kg more than 1984 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Orion, 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Orion. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1984 Ford Orion | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Orion |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 78 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 87 L |
