1973 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Peugeot 407
To start off, 2004 Peugeot 407 is newer by 31 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 2004 Peugeot 407. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Peugeot 407. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 310 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, 2004 Peugeot 407, 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, 2004 Peugeot 407 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Peugeot 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2004 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 3 | 407 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
