1974 BMW 3 vs. 1948 Jensen Straight 8
To start off, 1974 BMW 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jensen Straight 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jensen Straight 8 would be higher. At 3,860 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Jensen Straight 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1948 Jensen Straight 8. (130 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1948 Jensen Straight 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Jensen Straight 8 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 1948 Jensen Straight 8 | |
| Make | BMW | Jensen |
| Model | 3 | Straight 8 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1948 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3860 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3210 mm |
