1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 35 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 3,884 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (328 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2006 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. 2006 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2006 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3884 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 64 L |
