1971 BMW 3 vs. 1991 Chevrolet SS
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet SS is newer by 20 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 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chevrolet SS (245 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet SS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 Chevrolet SS (468 Nm) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm). This means 1991 Chevrolet SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1991 Chevrolet SS | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | SS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 245 HP |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3000 mm |
