2004 BMW M3 vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1971 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1971 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2680 mm |
