1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 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, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 170 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 2008 BMW 525 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, 2008 BMW 525 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 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2008 BMW 525 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. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
