1971 BMW 3 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 32 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2003 BMW 330 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. 2003 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 63 L |
