2008 BMW X3 vs. 1980 BMW M1
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 349 kg more than 1980 BMW M1.
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, 2008 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M1. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1980 BMW M1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 262 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
