1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2011 Mazda BT-50. (123 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda BT-50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2011 Mazda BT-50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda BT-50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda BT-50 will offer significantly more control. 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 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda BT-50. (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda BT-50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2011 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
