1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 266 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 3 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2740 mm |
