1971 BMW 3 vs. 1987 Peugeot 405
To start off, 1987 Peugeot 405 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) has 116 more horse power than 1987 Peugeot 405. (64 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Peugeot 405. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1987 Peugeot 405. 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 Peugeot 405, 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 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Peugeot 405. (122 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Peugeot 405.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1987 Peugeot 405 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 405 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 64 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2680 mm |
