1971 BMW 3 vs. 1952 Jaguar XK

To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1952 Jaguar XK. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1952 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1952 Jaguar XK. 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, 1952 Jaguar XK (290 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1952 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 1952 Jaguar XK
Make BMW Jaguar
Model 3 XK
Year Released 1971 1952
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 3441 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 254 Nm 290 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 106 mm
Top Speed 204 km/hour 201 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1295 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2600 mm