1973 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 35 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 2008 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2008 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2008 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
