1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Honda Element
To start off, 2006 Honda Element 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2006 Honda Element. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2006 Honda Element. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Honda Element. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Honda Element. 2006 Honda Element 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 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2006 Honda Element | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 3 | Element |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
