1972 BMW 3 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (657 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 460 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 390 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.
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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2009 BMW 550 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. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 550 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 4799 cc |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 657 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 490 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |