2009 BMW 335 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 335 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1972 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, 2009 BMW 335 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 335 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 335 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
