1973 BMW 3 vs. 1989 Ford Capri

To start off, 1989 Ford Capri is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1989 Ford Capri. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 3 weights approximately 178 kg more than 1989 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Capri, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Capri. (183 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Capri.

Compare all specifications:

1973 BMW 3 1989 Ford Capri
Make BMW Ford
Model 3 Capri
Year Released 1973 1989
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3153 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 203 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 287 Nm 183 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.3 mm 78 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 83.6 mm
Top Speed 222 km/hour 200 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.5 seconds 8.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1270 kg 1092 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 4230 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2410 mm