2008 BMW X5 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 790 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 X5 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 X5 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 X5 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2700 mm |
