2009 BMW 120 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120. 2009 BMW 120 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 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 120 | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 75 L |