1971 BMW 3 vs. 2010 BMW M3
To start off, 2010 BMW M3 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 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW M3 weights approximately 500 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, 2010 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2010 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2010 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | M3 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2761 mm |