1974 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2004 Porsche Boxster 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, 2004 Porsche Boxster (236 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 77 kg more than 2004 Porsche Boxster.
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, both vehicles can yield 270 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2004 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2420 mm |
