1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 BMW 320

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 37 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 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2008 BMW 320
Make BMW BMW
Model 3 320
Year Released 1971 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 17.0:1
Top Speed 206 km/hour 221 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1490 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 60 L


 

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