1973 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 36 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander, 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Highlander. (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Highlander. 2009 Toyota Highlander 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. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
