1973 BMW 3 vs. 1942 Packard 12
To start off, 1973 BMW 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Packard 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Packard 12 would be higher. At 7,755 cc (12 cylinders), 1942 Packard 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1942 Packard 12. (173 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1942 Packard 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Packard 12 weights approximately 1150 kg more than 1973 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1942 Packard 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Packard |
| Model | 3 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 7755 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3440 mm |
