1972 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Ford F-150
To start off, 1997 Ford F-150 is newer by 25 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 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford F-150 (256 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford F-150 weights approximately 865 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 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, 1997 Ford F-150 (467 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 1997 Ford F-150 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford F-150 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 1997 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 5406 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 467 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3050 mm |
