1971 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Lexus ES
To start off, 1997 Lexus ES 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 150 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 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1997 Lexus ES 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 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1997 Lexus ES | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 3 | ES |
Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
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 | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |