1971 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2004 Nissan Xterra is newer by 33 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 204 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2004 Nissan Xterra 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, 2004 Nissan Xterra 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Xterra. 2004 Nissan Xterra 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. 2004 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2004 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
