2007 BMW X3 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 36 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
