1971 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire 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 40 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire. 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, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire, 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 (255 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2004 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
