1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Ford F-450

To start off, 2011 Ford F-450 is newer by 40 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 6,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford F-450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford F-450 (399 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford F-450 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.

Because 2011 Ford F-450 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford F-450 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, 2011 Ford F-450 (1,085 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 830 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Ford F-450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2011 Ford F-450 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. 2011 Ford F-450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2011 Ford F-450
Make BMW Ford
Model 3 F-450
Year Released 1971 2011
Body Type Coupe Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 6700 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 180 HP 399 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 2800 RPM
Torque 255 Nm 1085 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 1600 RPM
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 6680 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 2438 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 2024 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 4379 mm