2008 BMW 550 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 37 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 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 2008 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2008 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 550 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 550 | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2986 cc |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 255 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 | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |