1971 BMW 3 vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 3,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix (205 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 185 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 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 76 L |
