1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Subaru Forester

To start off, 2012 Subaru Forester 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) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Subaru Forester. (170 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Forester weights approximately 94 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.

Because 2012 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Forester. (236 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Forester. 2012 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2012 Subaru Forester
Make BMW Subaru
Model 3 Forester
Year Released 1971 2012
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 200 HP 170 HP
Torque 271 Nm 236 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4100 RPM
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual 4-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1474 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4559 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1674 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2616 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 64 L