1971 BMW 3 vs. 1974 Volvo 140
To start off, 1974 Volvo 140 is newer by 3 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) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 140. (95 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 140.
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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 140. (147 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1974 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 140 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 95 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
