1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 BMW 123
To start off, 2011 BMW 123 is newer by 40 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 123 (202 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 123 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 123 weights approximately 115 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, 2011 BMW 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 123 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2011 BMW 123 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 123 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
