2009 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba 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 365 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba.
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, 1981 Talbot Samba, 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 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | BMW | Talbot |
| Model | M3 | Samba |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
