1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 246 kg more than 2005 Ford Fiesta. 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 Ford Fiesta, 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 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (208 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2005 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 43 L |
