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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 330 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 160 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 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 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
