1971 BMW 3 vs. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino
To start off, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is newer by 9 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 4,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino weights approximately 175 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, 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, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino (271 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm). This means 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino 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. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | El Camino |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2980 mm |
