1971 BMW 3 vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1988 Ford Taurus 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 120 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1988 Ford Taurus, 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 3 | Taurus |
Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 220 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.8:1 |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2700 mm |