2009 BMW M3 vs. 1975 Honda Z

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Honda Z 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 390 more horse power than 1975 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1975 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Honda Z, 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Honda Z.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1975 Honda Z
Make BMW Honda
Model M3 Z
Year Released 2009 1975
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 354 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 414 HP 24 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 30 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 62.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.2 mm 57.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 510 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 3000 mm
Vehicle Width 1400 mm 1300 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2010 mm