2008 BMW X3 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 135 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.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2700 mm |
