1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 BMW X3
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 461 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 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 BMW X3 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2006 BMW X3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | X3 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.7 mm |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1680 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |