1972 BMW 3 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320.
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 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 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 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
