2004 BMW M3 vs. 1971 Rover P6
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Rover P6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Rover P6 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Rover P6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1971 Rover P6. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Rover P6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1971 Rover P6. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Rover P6. (274 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Rover P6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1971 Rover P6 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | M3 | P6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 274 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2630 mm |
