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 50 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 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, 2012 BMW 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 128 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 128 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 128 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | 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 | 180 HP | 230 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4374 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1412 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2659 mm |