1971 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 370 kg more 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, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
