1971 BMW 3 vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 39 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2010 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 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, 2010 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2010 BMW 550 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. 2010 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3066 mm |
