1997 BMW S3 vs. 1972 Chevrolet Nomad
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Nomad. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Nomad would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Nomad is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Nomad. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Nomad. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Nomad weights approximately 367 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Nomad. (312 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Nomad.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1972 Chevrolet Nomad | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | S3 | Nomad |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |
