1972 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado

To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (340 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 1130 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado (488 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 BMW 3 2003 Chevrolet Silverado
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 3 Silverado
Year Released 1972 2003
Body Type Coupe Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3003 cc 6000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 340 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 272 Nm 488 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1270 kg 2400 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 5790 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1840 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 3650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 98 L