1971 BMW 3 vs. 1972 BMW M1
To start off, 1972 BMW M1 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW M1 should accelerate faster 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. Let's talk about torque, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW M1. (177 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1972 BMW M1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | M1 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
