1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 62 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 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
