1971 BMW 3 vs. 1981 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 1981 Nissan Patrol is newer by 10 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 695 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1981 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1981 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Patrol |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2980 mm |
