1972 BMW 3 vs. 2003 BMW X Activity
To start off, 2003 BMW X Activity is newer by 31 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, 2003 BMW X Activity (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X Activity should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X Activity weights approximately 360 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X Activity is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X Activity 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, 2003 BMW X Activity (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X Activity will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2003 BMW X Activity | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | X Activity |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
