2009 BMW M3 vs. 1976 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 4,143 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 108 kg more than 1976 Holden Sunbird. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (325 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1976 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | M3 | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2590 mm |
