1971 BMW 3 vs. 2010 Lexus RX
To start off, 2010 Lexus RX 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus RX (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus RX weights approximately 515 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, 2010 Lexus RX, 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, 2010 Lexus RX (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2010 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2010 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | RX |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 348 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 73 L |
