1974 BMW 3 vs. 1957 Volvo 120
To start off, 1974 BMW 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1957 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 438 kg more than 1957 Volvo 120. 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1957 Volvo 120 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | 120 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1582 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |