1973 BMW 3 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 30 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 19 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
