1971 BMW 3 vs. 2007 BMW 530
To start off, 2007 BMW 530 is newer by 36 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 530 weights approximately 285 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 2007 BMW 530 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, 2007 BMW 530 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, 2007 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2007 BMW 530 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. 2007 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2007 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2890 mm |
