1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW 535
To start off, 2012 BMW 535 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 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 535 weights approximately 755 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.
Because 2012 BMW 535 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 535 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, 2012 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2012 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 BMW 535 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 535 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 406 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2135 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4999 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3071 mm |