1971 BMW 3 vs. 1978 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1978 Plymouth Horizon 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) has 125 more horse power than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. 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 Plymouth Horizon, 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 @ 3700 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1978 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | BMW | Plymouth |
| Model | 3 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2530 mm |
