1971 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2002 Toyota Corolla is newer by 31 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2002 Toyota Corolla, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2002 Toyota Corolla
Make BMW Toyota
Model 3 Corolla
Year Released 1971 2002
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 1496 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 254 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 84.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.1:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1170 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1620 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2610 mm