1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Nissan Quest
To start off, 2006 Nissan Quest 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Quest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Quest (240 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Quest should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Quest weights approximately 260 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, 2006 Nissan Quest, 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, 2006 Nissan Quest (328 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Quest will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2006 Nissan Quest | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Quest |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
