2009 BMW 335 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 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, 2009 BMW 335 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2009 BMW 335 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 BMW 335 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 BMW 335 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 335 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 335 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
