2009 BMW 650 vs. 1978 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 2009 BMW 650. (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 650. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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. 2009 BMW 650 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 650 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 650 | 1978 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 650 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2570 mm |
