1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Jeep Commander

To start off, 2009 Jeep Commander 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 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Commander (305 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Commander should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Commander weights approximately 18 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.

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 Jeep Commander (453 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Commander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Jeep Commander 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 Jeep Commander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2009 Jeep Commander
Make BMW Jeep
Model 3 Commander
Year Released 1971 2009
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 4701 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 170 HP 305 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5650 RPM
Torque 254 Nm 453 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 3950 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1398 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1840 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2790 mm