1959 BMW 700 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (238 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 910 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (350 Nm) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 700 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1997 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 2031 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2810 mm |
