1972 BMW 3 vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 26 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, both vehicles can yield 271 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 3 | Alero |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
