1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 590 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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 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 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| 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 | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2969 mm |
