1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Ford Flex
To start off, 2009 Ford Flex 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 414 kg more than 2009 Ford Flex.
Because 2009 Ford Flex 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, 2009 Ford Flex 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, 2009 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Ford Flex 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 Ford Flex will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Ford Flex | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Flex |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
