1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 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 39 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 125 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, 2009 BMW 318 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 BMW 318 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 318 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | 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 | 180 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |