1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala 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 3,343 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (181 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 157 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 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, 2005 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (278 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2005 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2005 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2005 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2880 mm |
