1971 BMW 3 vs. 1958 Opel Kapitan
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Opel Kapitan 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1958 Opel Kapitan. (74 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1958 Opel Kapitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1958 Opel Kapitan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1958 Opel Kapitan | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Kapitan |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
