1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra

To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra 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 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2012 Hyundai Elantra
Make BMW Hyundai
Model 3 Elantra
Year Released 1971 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1332 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4486 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1765 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1519 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 53 L