1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 495 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 X3 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 X3 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 X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | X3 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 560 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4648 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1881 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1675 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2810 mm |