1971 BMW 3 vs. 1987 Ford Probe
To start off, 1987 Ford Probe is newer by 16 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1987 Ford Probe. 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, 1987 Ford Probe, 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, 1987 Ford Probe (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1987 Ford Probe | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2530 mm |
