1972 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 33 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 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 244 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 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, 2005 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (305 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2005 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1514 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
