2000 Acura TL vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2000 Acura TL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Acura TL (226 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Acura TL weights approximately 305 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Acura TL, 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, 2000 Acura TL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2000 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2000 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Acura TL | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | TL | 3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
