2009 BMW M3 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
