1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW 128
To start off, 2012 BMW 128 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, 2012 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 128 weights approximately 205 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, both vehicles can yield 271 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2012 BMW 128 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 128 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4374 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1412 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 53 L |
