1992 BMW 332 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1992 BMW 332 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 332 (326 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 332 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1992 BMW 332 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 332 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 332 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
