1971 BMW 3 vs. 1958 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1958 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1620 mm |
