1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2006 Subaru Impreza 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, 2006 Subaru Impreza (227 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 45 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 2006 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza 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, 2006 Subaru Impreza (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2006 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2530 mm |
