2009 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Honda Civic
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Civic 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 361 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic.
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, 1978 Honda Civic, 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 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1978 Honda Civic | |
Make | BMW | Honda |
Model | M3 | Civic |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1169 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2210 mm |