1971 BMW 3 vs. 1978 Fiat Strada
To start off, 1978 Fiat Strada is newer by 7 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, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Strada. (60 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Fiat Strada, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada. 1978 Fiat Strada 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. 1978 Fiat Strada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1978 Fiat Strada | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 3 | Strada |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2460 mm |
