1973 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Ford E-150
To start off, 2006 Ford E-150 is newer by 33 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-150 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-150 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford E-150 weights approximately 446 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.
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, 2006 Ford E-150, 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, 2006 Ford E-150 (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2006 Ford E-150 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | E-150 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 2060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 132 L |
