1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 41 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 2012 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 118 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
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 | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1421 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |