1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 34 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 22 more horse power than 2006 BMW 525. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 525.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2006 BMW 525 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. 2006 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2006 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
