1972 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 40 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, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2012 BMW 118. (177 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
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, 2012 BMW 118 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 118 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 177 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |