1974 BMW 3 vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1974 BMW 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen 1500 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 148 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 497 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2430 mm |
