1971 BMW 3 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 42 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 315 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 2013 BMW 3 Series 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2 :1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 61 L |
