1972 BMW 3 vs. 1971 Buick GS
To start off, 1972 BMW 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Buick GS. (190 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Buick GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick GS weights approximately 362 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1971 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1971 Buick GS | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 3 | GS |
Year Released | 1972 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 5724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 394 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1632 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |