2009 Acura RL vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 38 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 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RL weights approximately 472 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 2009 Acura RL 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, 2009 Acura RL 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, 2009 Acura RL (271 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Acura RL 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. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RL | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2670 mm |
