1973 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 24 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 95 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
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, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2088 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
