1971 BMW 3 vs. 1959 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1959 Ford Fairlane. (168 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 714 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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. 1959 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1959 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1959 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2094 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3000 mm |
