1972 BMW 3 vs. 2007 BMW X5
To start off, 2007 BMW X5 is newer by 35 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, 2007 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X5 weights approximately 800 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 2007 BMW X5 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, 2007 BMW X5 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, 2007 BMW X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2007 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 93 L |
