1971 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Astro 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 515 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 1997 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1997 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Astro |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |
