1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 34 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 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 310 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 63 L |
