1971 BMW 3 vs. 1988 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1988 Ford Meteor is newer by 17 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 109 more horse power than 1988 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Meteor.
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, 1988 Ford Meteor, 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 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1988 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
