1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2005 Mercury Sable 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, 2005 Mercury Sable (201 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Sable weights approximately 124 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 Mercury Sable, 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 Mercury Sable (281 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2005 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 3 | Sable |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
