1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 268 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.
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, 2008 Nissan 350Z, 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 76 L |
