1972 BMW 3 vs. 2001 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2001 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 29 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 100 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, 2001 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2001 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 3 | Alero |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
