1971 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 1997 Acura RL is newer by 26 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 295 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, 1997 Acura RL, 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1997 Acura RL 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. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1997 Acura RL | |
Make | BMW | Acura |
Model | 3 | RL |
Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3472 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.6:1 |
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 | 1675 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2920 mm |