1972 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Opel Corsa
To start off, 2004 Opel Corsa is newer by 32 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 98 more horse power than 2004 Opel Corsa. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Corsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Corsa weights approximately 128 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, 2004 Opel Corsa, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Corsa. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Corsa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2004 Opel Corsa | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Corsa |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 44 L |
