1973 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1996 Ford Mustang is newer by 23 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 200 kg more than 1973 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. 1996 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
