1974 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Honda Element
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 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 47 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (153 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 104 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 1974 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Element. (220 Nm). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Element. 2004 Honda Element 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. 2004 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2004 Honda Element | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 3 | Element |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2690 mm |
