1972 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Honda Civic

To start off, 2005 Honda Civic 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2005 Honda Civic. (115 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 109 kg more than 2005 Honda Civic. 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 Honda Civic, 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) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Honda Civic. (149 Nm). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 BMW 3 2005 Honda Civic
Make BMW Honda
Model 3 Civic
Year Released 1972 2005
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3003 cc 1671 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 272 Nm 149 Nm
Engine Bore Size 89.3 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 94 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1270 kg 1161 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 50 L