1972 BMW 3 vs. 2009 BMW 535
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 37 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, 2009 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 535 weights approximately 245 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 2009 BMW 535 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, 2009 BMW 535 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, 2009 BMW 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2009 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
