1983 BMW 323 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1983 BMW 323 is newer by 12 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, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1983 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 253 kg more than 1983 BMW 323. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 323 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 323 | 3 |
Year Released | 1983 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 205 Nm | 255 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |