1974 BMW 3 vs. 1972 Rover P5B
To start off, 1974 BMW 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Rover P5B. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Rover P5B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover P5B weights approximately 157 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Rover P5B (295 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1972 Rover P5B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 1972 Rover P5B has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Rover P5B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1972 Rover P5B | |
Make | BMW | Rover |
Model | 3 | P5B |
Year Released | 1974 | 1972 |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3528 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 295 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1550 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2820 mm |