1971 BMW 3 vs. 1978 Lotus 79
To start off, 1978 Lotus 79 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 2,992 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Lotus 79 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lotus 79 (484 HP @ 11000 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lotus 79 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1978 Lotus 79.
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 | 1978 Lotus 79 | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 3 | 79 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 11000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 590 kg |
