1971 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 170 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 66 L |