1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 273 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 Taurus X 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 Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2870 mm |
