1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 BMW 118
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 38 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 46 more horse power than 2009 BMW 118. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 118 weights approximately 5 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 118. 2009 BMW 118 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. 2009 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 BMW 118 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 118 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |