2006 BMW 120 vs. 1971 BMW 3

To start off, 2006 BMW 120 is newer by 35 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2006 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 120 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.

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, 2006 BMW 120 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 120 1971 BMW 3
Make BMW BMW
Model 120 3
Year Released 2006 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2986 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 154 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 331 Nm 271 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3700 RPM
Top Speed 220 km/hour 206 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1835 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 75 L


 

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