2006 BMW 550 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 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 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster 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 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 550 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 550 | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4801 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 488 Nm | 254 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2700 mm |