1971 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Ford Mustang 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 96 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.
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. 1997 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
