2009 BMW M3 vs. 1974 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 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 214 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1974 BMW 3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
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 | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 80 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1433 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |