2009 BMW 128 vs. 1973 BMW 3.3

To start off, 2009 BMW 128 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3.3. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 128 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.3. 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, 1973 BMW 3.3 (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 128. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3.3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 128. 1973 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 128 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 128 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 128 1973 BMW 3.3
Make BMW BMW
Model 128 3.3
Year Released 2009 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 3295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 230 HP 190 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 289 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 16.0:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1530 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2800 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 95 L