1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Honda Insight

To start off, 2011 Honda Insight 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, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2011 Honda Insight. (98 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Insight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 139 kg more than 2011 Honda Insight. 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, 2011 Honda Insight, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Insight. (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Insight.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2011 Honda Insight
Make BMW Honda
Model 3 Insight
Year Released 1971 2011
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 1300 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 98 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 1000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual CVT
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1241 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4376 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1694 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1427 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 40 L